Former British Home Secretary Suella Braverman has stirred fresh debate over colonial reparations by arguing that former British colonies, including Ghana, should compensate the United Kingdom rather than seek reparations for slavery and colonial rule.
Her comments come at a time when Ghana and several African nations are intensifying calls for reparative justice over the transatlantic slave trade and the long-term impact of colonialism on the continent and its diaspora.
In a post on X, Braverman defended the legacy of the British Empire, maintaining that it made significant contributions to the development of many countries that were once under British rule.
“The British Empire did so much good for the world,” she wrote.
Although she acknowledged that slavery was morally wrong, Braverman dismissed demands for present-day Britain to compensate former colonies, arguing that current generations should not be held financially responsible for actions committed centuries ago.
“Of course, slavery was abhorrent, but to expect the British people of the 21st century to pay for actions that took place in the 18th century has no basis in law,” she stated.
The former Conservative politician, who joined the far-right Reform UK party earlier this year, further argued that if reparations were to be considered, the direction of compensation should be reversed.
According to her, Britain invested heavily in infrastructure, governance and institutions across its former colonies, laying the foundation for what she described as many of today’s successful democracies.
“If the government is seriously thinking about this, then former colonies should pay the British back for the considerable investment, effort, and contribution that this country made, which laid the foundations for many flourishing democracies today,” she added.
Her remarks contrast sharply with Ghana’s recent diplomatic efforts on the global stage to advance the case for reparative justice.
Earlier this year, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a Ghana-sponsored motion calling for renewed international action on reparations for the transatlantic slave trade. The resolution, presented by President John Mahama on March 25, 2026, secured the support of 123 member states.
The motion urges the international community to engage in structured dialogue and pursue concrete measures aimed at acknowledging and addressing the lasting economic, social and cultural consequences of slavery for African nations and people of African descent.
Braverman’s comments are expected to fuel further international debate over the historical legacy of colonialism and the growing global movement advocating reparations for slavery.
