Kemi Badenoch, a British politician of Nigerian descent and the UK’s Equalities Minister, described reparations as a “scam,” sparking strong reactions. Many critics feel her stance overlooks the colonial injustices faced by African and Caribbean nations and are disappointed in her dismissal of reparation efforts. Badenoch’s claim that the British Empire “ended the Atlantic slave trade” and that countries now asking for reparations are exploiting guilt raises important questions about colonial legacies, historical responsibility, and the role of political agendas. Let’s explore these issues.

A Historical Perspective on Reparations

Calls for reparations are rooted in centuries of exploitation, slavery, and oppression under colonial rule. African nations, the Caribbean, and even parts of Asia suffered losses of land, culture, and wealth, in addition to long-term economic and social consequences. Colonial powers profited heavily from these regions, building their economies on the backs of exploited peoples. Reparations, then, are not merely requests for “guilt payments” but are calls for accountability, justice, and compensation for historical wrongs.

The British Empire, for instance, not only profited from slavery but also looted resources from colonies. This accumulation of wealth enabled Britain’s industrial and social development, while the colonies were left economically and socially underdeveloped—a disparity that remains evident today.

The British Empire’s Role in Slavery

Badenoch’s argument that Britain “ended the Atlantic slave trade” seems to overlook Britain’s initial role in slavery’s establishment and expansion. Britain was a major force in the transatlantic slave trade, forcibly transporting millions of Africans to the Americas, where they were subjected to inhumane conditions. The British abolition of the slave trade in 1807 and of slavery itself in 1833 indeed marked significant turning points, but these actions were preceded by decades of involvement in slavery. Furthermore, when Britain finally abolished slavery, it compensated former slave owners while the freed slaves received nothing.

The Question of “Guilt” vs. Accountability

Badenoch’s statements suggest that countries calling for reparations are seeking to exploit British guilt. However, this framing is oversimplified. Reparations are not about guilt but rather about the responsibility and acknowledgment of a historical legacy that continues to impact the descendants of enslaved and colonized people. When critics call for reparations, they’re calling for a recognition of economic and social disparities rooted in colonial exploitation and for actions that may begin to address these inequalities.

A Political Perspective: Strategic Positioning?

As a Black British politician, of African roots Badenoch’s dismissal of reparations is particularly complex. For some, it reflects a strategic positioning that aligns with a conservative British political stance that resists financial redress. This alignment might indeed be politically beneficial within certain circles, as it reinforces the notion that Britain has moved beyond its colonial past and bears no ongoing responsibility for it. Such a position can appeal to voters who see reparations as a “foreign” issue that drains resources from domestic needs.

It’s essential to consider that while politicians of immigrant backgrounds may feel pressure to align with the mainstream narratives of their adopted countries, these narratives don’t negate the historical truths of colonial harm.

The Broader Conversation on Reparations and Legacy

Whether through reparations or other means, many believe the UK has a moral obligation to address the enduring effects of colonialism. This can be achieved through financial compensation, supporting development in former colonies, or through education and awareness of historical injustices. The idea is not to burden future generations with guilt but to ensure that the consequences of colonialism and slavery are acknowledged and addressed in meaningful ways.

Badenoch’s statements are deeply disappointing, especially coming from someone of African descent who should recognize the weight of colonial history. By calling reparations a “scam” and downplaying the brutal legacy of the British Empire, she dismisses the valid grievances of communities still impacted by colonial exploitation. Her words reflect a troubling alignment with narratives that erase history and undermine calls for justice. It’s disheartening to see a Black leader rewrite this history in a way that could serve short-term political gain, rather than acknowledging the real, ongoing struggles that stem from colonialism’s painful past.