African leaders convened in Algiers to advocate for the recognition and reparations of colonial-era crimes. The conference aimed to advance an African Union resolution calling for justice for victims of colonialism, with a focus on establishing a legal framework for restitution.

Recognition of Colonial Crimes
During the conference, Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf emphasized the importance of acknowledging the atrocities committed during colonial times. He stated that Algeria's experience under French rule serves as a stark reminder of the need for compensation and the return of stolen property. Attaf asserted that Africa is entitled to demand formal recognition of these crimes as a critical first step in addressing the ongoing consequences of colonialism, which include exclusion, marginalization, and economic setbacks.

Legal Framework for Restitution
Attaf proposed that a legal framework be developed to ensure that restitution is viewed as a right rather than a favor. He highlighted that international conventions have outlawed practices such as slavery and torture, yet the United Nations Charter does not explicitly address colonialism. This gap was a central topic at the African Union's February summit, where leaders discussed the necessity of defining colonization as a crime against humanity.

Economic Impact of Colonialism
The economic ramifications of colonialism in Africa are believed to be monumental, with estimates suggesting costs in the trillions. European powers extracted natural resources through brutal methods, amassing vast wealth while leaving local populations impoverished. Attaf's remarks underscored the urgency for African states to intensify their demands for the return of looted artifacts currently housed in European museums.

Algeria's Historical Context
The choice of Algeria as the conference location was significant, given its history of brutal French colonial rule and the bloody struggle for independence. Attaf noted that nearly a million European settlers enjoyed privileges over the local population, while hundreds of thousands of Algerians died during the revolution. This historical context continues to inform Algeria's stance on issues like the Western Sahara, which remains a contentious point in the region.

Wrap-up
The conference in Algiers marks a pivotal moment for African leaders as they unite to demand recognition and reparations for colonial crimes. By framing these issues within a legal context, they aim to address the historical injustices that have long affected the continent's development and social fabric.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team