Prime Minister Gaston Browne says a structured dialogue with Britain on slavery reparations is expected to take place within the next 12 months, with a framework for the discussions anticipated by the end of 2026 or early 2027.
Speaking at the closing press briefing of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday, Browne said leaders had accepted the United Kingdom’s proposal for an inclusive dialogue.
“This structured dialogue that he has proposed, we’re hoping that it will take place sometime within the next 12 months,” Browne said.
He said there was also agreement in principle to establish the framework for those discussions by the end of this year or early next year.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said the summit’s communiqué reflected support for a process with a defined timeframe.
Leaders welcomed Britain’s agreement to engage in “a structured, time-bound, inclusive, and good faith dialogue with affected parties” addressing the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved Africans and its historical harms, she said.
The announcement provides an anticipated timetable for discussions, although neither Browne nor Botchwey identified a specific starting date or deadline for completing the process.
Browne praised British Prime Minister Andy Burnham for his willingness to address the issue, saying the approach had generated goodwill among Caribbean countries.
He maintained, however, that reparations must be included in the talks.
Asked whether compensation would be considered despite the British prime minister’s stated position, Browne said Caribbean countries remained clear about their expectations.
“Reparations are important and … reparations must be part of this structured dialogue,” he said.
Browne expressed optimism that the parties could reach consensus, while saying Caribbean countries would approach the discussions reasonably.
He said the issue had not divided Commonwealth leaders during the summit, arguing that their shared interests and values required them to work through difficult questions together.
Botchwey also said leaders acknowledged initiatives by the Caribbean Community, the African Union and other partners to advance reparatory justice and the restitution of cultural heritage.
Source: Antigua News Room Slavery reparations dialogue with Britain expected within 12 months, PM Gaston Browne says.