President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on Tuesday acknowledged Portugal’s historical culpability for atrocities committed during the transatlantic slave trade and colonial era, hinting at the necessity of reparations.
Over the span of four centuries, at least 12.5 million Africans endured abduction, brutal voyages on European ships, and enslavement upon arrival in the Americas, predominantly in regions like Brazil and the Caribbean.
Portugal played a substantial role, trafficking nearly 6 million Africans, the highest among European nations. Yet, the nation has yet to fully address its past, with little education on its involvement in the transatlantic slave trade in schools.
Contrary to the grim reality, Portugal’s colonial history, which included dominion over territories like Angola, Mozambique, Brazil, Cape Verde, East Timor, and parts of India, is often celebrated.
Speaking at a gathering with foreign correspondents, President Rebelo de Sousa asserted Portugal’s accountability for past injustices, including colonial massacres, emphasizing that these actions have incurred “costs” that must be acknowledged and addressed.
“We have to pay the costs,” he affirmed, raising questions about unpunished actions and unreturned looted goods, signaling a call for restitution.
Globally, there has been a surge in calls for reparations and corrective measures to mitigate the enduring impact of Portugal’s history, including systemic racism and inequalities.
While Rebelo de Sousa previously advocated for an apology, he underscored the significance of acknowledging and assuming responsibility for the past over mere apologies, stating, “Apologizing is the easy part.”
