Six in 10 in UK poll say descendants of enslaved people owed formal apology

In a UK poll, 60% of participants believe that Caribbean nations and descendants of enslaved individuals deserve a formal apology from the government, businesses that benefited from slavery, and the royal family.

This sentiment was especially strong among younger and Black respondents.

The survey, timed with the UN International Day for Slavery Remembrance, was conducted by the Repair Campaign, which aims to address the historical injustices in the Caribbean.

Denis O’Brien, founder of the Repair Campaign, highlighted the significant support for an apology in the UK, emphasizing that it is time for the government and the monarchy to acknowledge their historical wrongs.

Additionally, 40% of those surveyed support financial reparations for the Caribbean to rectify the legacy of slavery and colonialism, with a majority believing the UK government should be responsible for compensation.

Labour MP Clive Lewis noted that the poll reflects a progressive stance among the British public towards reparatory justice, suggesting it could initiate a broader discussion on addressing the impacts of slavery and colonialism.

The survey also revealed that 56% of participants felt knowledgeable about the UK's role in slavery, and about half were aware of its lasting impacts.

Amidst increased demands for accountability over transatlantic slavery, the poll indicates a strong public support for formal apologies and reparations, displaying a shift in attitudes towards race and legacy of the empire among the younger generation.