France should repay billions of dollars to Haiti to cover a debt formerly enslaved people were forced to pay in return for recognizing the island's independence. The debt was only fully repaid in 1947, causing turmoil in Haiti. The proposal seeks restitution to Haiti for the "ransom" paid to France after gaining freedom.
The coalition of civil society groups is urging for a new independent commission to oversee the repayment, with the funds directed towards public works in Haiti. France's moral debt and historical reparations are highlighted, with estimates ranging from $21bn to possibly over $200bn, considering interest.
The push for reparations is part of a larger movement seeking justice for the impacts of slavery and colonialism. The proposal, if adopted, may influence the conclusions of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, potentially encouraging further actions towards addressing historical injustices.
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