Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has urged Commonwealth nations to engage in candid and constructive discussions on reparations for slavery and colonialism, framing the issue as a matter of justice and reconciliation rather than assigning blame. Speaking at the launch of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which Antigua and Barbuda will host, Browne emphasized the importance of addressing historical injustices within the Commonwealth family. He stated that the government “will not use the issue of reparations to shame any nation,” but instead called for honest dialogue to establish a framework for resolving the issue in a mutually satisfactory manner. Browne highlighted the Commonwealth’s historical leadership in combating apartheid and advocating for climate action, urging the organization to take a similar stance on reparations. He described the issue as part of a broader moral duty to correct past wrongs and promote equitable development among nations. Browne’s appeal aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s agenda for CHOGM 2026, which focuses on accelerating partnerships and investment for a prosperous Commonwealth. The Prime Minister also emphasized the need for small states to advocate for fairness and inclusion in global policy, including economic redress and reform. Browne’s remarks positioned reparations alongside other key priorities such as climate resilience, international financial reform, and global peace, as part of a transformative agenda for the upcoming CHOGM.
Browne Urges Commonwealth to Confront Reparations and Historical Injustice
