MWE Correspondent
French President Emmanuel Macron has called for France to remove outdated laws linked to slavery in its former colonies, saying the country must confront its colonial past with honesty and responsibility.
Speaking during an event focused on historical memory and relations with former colonies, Macron said the so-called “Code Noir” laws no longer reflect the values modern France claims to defend. The laws, introduced centuries ago during the French colonial empire, regulated slavery in territories including parts of the Caribbean and other overseas colonies.
Macron acknowledged the lasting pain caused by slavery and said France must openly recognize the suffering experienced by Black communities and people in former colonies.
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“We must speak the truth about slavery, its violence, and its long-term effects,” Macron said, while emphasizing the importance of historical understanding and reconciliation.
However, the French president cautioned against making promises the government may not be able to fulfill regarding reparations linked to slavery. He said discussions should remain realistic while continuing efforts to address historical injustices.
As part of the initiative, Macron announced a new partnership project between France and Ghana aimed at studying the lasting social and economic effects of slavery on communities today. The research program is expected to involve historians, academics, and policy experts from both countries.
The announcement comes amid growing international debate over colonial history, reparations, and how European nations should address the legacy of slavery and imperialism.
