Europe's ethnic divide cannot be absolved of historical mistakes, says a report by Reuters
Written by Catarina Demony
(Reuters) – Racial differences in some European countries cannot be resolved if the legacy of colonialism and slavery is ignored, a report by the EU's anti-racism group said on Wednesday.
The report “Europe's Original Sin” analyzed the historical use of six former colonial powers – Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain – of policies and laws that exclude racist groups, and their continuing impact today.
The Brussels-based European Network Against Racism said those policies and the exploitation of resources and labor contributed to the economic growth of former colonial countries and prevented Black people from gaining wealth.
In the Netherlands, which forcibly transported more than half a million Africans across the Atlantic, slavery was a very profitable business. In 1770, slavery-related activities reached 5.2% of GDP, according to the report.
In Portugal, which trafficked nearly 6 million Africans, more than any other European nation, the empire's economic influence reached its peak around 1800.
“In tracing the historical traces of colonialism, slavery and exploitation in Europe, it is clear that these entrenched systems have left a lasting impact on the socio-economic landscape of Europe,” the report said, adding that many continue to face racial discrimination in education. employment, social and financial services.
In France, the African poverty rate is 39.5%, more than double that of Europeans. The wage gap persists in other areas as well. Discrimination and discrimination are also evident in mortgage approvals, financial reporting by banks and evictions, the report found.
Among several recommendations, the European Network Against Racism called for mandatory training to combat racism in financial institutions and banks, as well as those responsible for designing and implementing social policies.
“Understanding the legacy of colonialism is essential to formulating policies that address historical injustices,” the report said.
It also said that any restoration of slavery and colonialism must acknowledge the direct link between current economic conditions and past colonial exploitation. The school curriculum should raise awareness as well.
The hugely divisive issue of reparations to address historical wrongs has been around for a long time but is gaining momentum, as several institutions such as the Church of England and other nations acknowledge their future.
