The question of reparations to post-colonial states

Abstract

The discussion of reparations for post-colonial states is on the rise. Member States that experienced colonial rule are asking for some form of compensation for the violence and suffering of colonial conquest and rule, which they describe as the biggest injustice of the world. Reparations has emerged as a major issue in the United Nations, where more than two-thirds of the 193 Member States are former colonial territories. Some former colonial Member States demand reparations to rectify the consequences of past conquest and prejudice against individuals, groups or entire countries today. Colonialism, which dominated the modern era, resulted in brutal injustices against colonized peoples. Today these actions are described by many victims as Crimes against Humanity. Although colonialism ended in most of the world almost 50 years ago, its impact is still felt today in racist attitudes against descendants of colonized peoples and the poverty and underdevelopment endemic in many postcolonial states.