African countries are working together on a major new effort. They want the world to officially recognize the crimes of the colonial period as crimes against humanity. They also want to create a system for reparations, which are payments to make up for past wrongs.
This plan started with a decision by the African Union earlier this year. Leaders believe the problems caused by colonialism are still affecting Africa today. They point to economic harm, the loss of culture, and political issues. At a recent meeting in Algeria, diplomats agreed on a united strategy. Algeria used its own history under French rule as a clear example of this lasting damage.
A key goal is to make colonization itself an international crime. Supporters say current United Nations rules do not clearly condemn colonialism. They want to change this. As Algeria's Foreign Minister said, recognizing these crimes is the necessary first step. After that, discussions about reparations can begin.
The request for reparations is based on the huge amount of resources taken from Africa, like minerals and crops. Experts say this is worth trillions of dollars. African nations also want thousands of cultural artifacts returned from European museums. Leaders stress this is about justice, not charity. They say compensation is an obligation, not a gift.
This united action is a big change. Instead of individual countries asking for help, Africa is speaking with one voice through the African Union. It is a long-term plan to bring former colonial powers to the negotiating table. The road to real reparations will be difficult, but this effort guarantees the issue will stay important. It could change how the world deals with historical justice for many years.