Call for Justice: Groups Demand Reparations for Haiti from France

Over 60 rights organizations have urged President Macron to provide reparations to Haiti for the devastating compensation payments made to France after its independence, highlighting the adverse impact on Haiti’s economy. Haiti's call for reparation is also backed by regional and African nations.

More than 60 rights groups have issued a demand to French President Emmanuel Macron, pressing for reparations to Haiti resulting from crippling payments it made to France. These payments, including compensation for lost 'property' such as slaves, have left lasting economic wounds on the nation.

The letter, sent on Tuesday, coincides with a worsening situation in Haiti, which battles extreme poverty and gang violence amid scant international assistance. Activists claim the historical debt severely hindered Haiti's GDP growth and perpetuated its reliance on foreign aid and entangled debt.

Signatories, which include groups across the U.S., Africa, and Caribbean, urge recognition and rectification of these injustices. Meanwhile, while France hints at willingness to revisit the historical context, full reparations remain undiscussed. CARICOM has also voiced support for Haiti, emphasizing the need for reparations and economic development assistance.

(With inputs from agencies.)