Source: Jamaica Gleaner
The P J Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy says true emancipation must extend beyond political freedoms and civil rights.
The institute, which is based at the University of the West Indies, says it must include economic empowerment, equitable access to land, productive enterprise and the opportunity for every citizen to build wealth and contribute meaningfully to national development.
It noted that while important political and civil rights have been achieved, broad access to land ownership and economic development “continue to elude many Caribbean people”.
“Our region continues to face persistent challenges in building productive, self-sustaining economies,” it said in a message marking Emancipation Day 2026.
“This is an important step in strengthening the claim for reparatory justice from Europe.”
The institute says that as CARICOM member states and the African Union push for reparations, it is the duty of all leaders and the global community to develop and empower their citizens to strengthen the call.
