Nigel Farage faces criticism for a controversial move to potentially block visas for citizens of 19 countries seeking reparations for Britain’s historical involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. The leader of Reform UK lashed out at the United Nations (UN), opposing a recent resolution urging nations with a history of slavery to compensate affected countries.
Despite mounting global pressure, Keir Starmer has firmly stated his refusal to consider such reparations. Farage pledged to take a tough stance on African and Caribbean nations pushing for compensation, although he did not explicitly promise to deport individuals from these countries if he were to assume the role of Prime Minister.
During a press conference in Warwickshire, Farage accused the UN of using these countries as tools to undermine the values and heritage of the UK. He highlighted the dark history of slavery, acknowledging both shameful and commendable aspects of Britain’s past.
In the 15th to 19th centuries, an estimated 12 to 15 million Africans were forcibly enslaved, mainly in the Americas, with around two million perishing during the brutal transatlantic voyages. Advocates for reparations argue that acknowledging this historical injustice is crucial to addressing the long-lasting economic repercussions and suffering endured by affected nations colonized by European powers like the UK, France, Portugal, and Spain.
On the other hand, a Labour spokesperson dismissed Farage’s stance as a “desperate gimmick,” criticizing Reform UK for lacking a coherent immigration policy. The party representative highlighted the presence of former Conservative members within Reform UK who failed to effectively manage immigration during their time in government.
Zia Yusuf, Reform’s home affairs spokesperson, emphasized that the UK should not be seen as an endless source of compensation for past grievances, asserting the nation’s refusal to be ridiculed on the global stage.
The UN resolution, adopted with overwhelming support, saw 123 nations voting in favor while only the United States, Israel, and Argentina opposed it. The UK was among the 52 countries that abstained from the vote.
Ghana’s foreign minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, clarified that African leaders seek compensation not for personal gain but to seek justice for victims, support educational initiatives, and establish funds for skills training.
Reform UK identified 19 nations potentially affected by Farage’s proposal, including countries like Jamaica, Nigeria, and Haiti, among others, that could see their citizens facing visa restrictions if the plan were to be implemented.
