The right-wing political party Reform UK has sparked controversy after proposing to deny visas to citizens of countries demanding reparations for transatlantic slavery, drawing sharp criticism from international groups and Caribbean leaders.
Party leader Nigel Farage said the policy would block visa applications from nations pursuing compensation for slavery, including former British colonies such as Ghana and Jamaica.
Zia Yusuf, the party’s head of home affairs policy, defended the move, calling reparations demands “insulting” and arguing that Britain played a leading role in abolishing slavery and enforcing its ban globally.
The proposal was swiftly condemned by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Reparations Commission. Its chairman, Hilary Beckles, described the policy as a “legacy of toxic racism” and urged the party to reconsider.
“Punishing the victims again is tragic,” Beckles said, arguing that those seeking justice for historical injustices should not face further discrimination.
Calls for reparations have been growing in recent years, backed by organizations such as the African Union and supported by several Latin American and Caribbean countries. Advocates argue that reparations are necessary not only for historical ظلم but also for ongoing economic inequality and racial disparities rooted in slavery.
However, the issue remains divisive. Critics, including some Western leaders, argue that present-day governments should not be held accountable for actions of the past. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has previously said he prefers to “look forward” rather than engage in prolonged debates over reparations.
The debate gained further momentum last month when the United Nations adopted a resolution, proposed by Ghana, declaring transatlantic slavery the “gravest crime against humanity” and calling for reparations. The United Kingdom was among several former colonial powers that abstained from the vote.
Despite having only a small presence in parliament, Reform UK is currently performing strongly in opinion polls ahead of the next general election expected by 2029, making its policy proposals increasingly influential in the national debate.
As reactions continue to pour in, the controversy highlights deep divisions over how countries confront the legacy of slavery and whether reparations should play a role in addressing its lasting impact.