This theme was decided on by the Heads of State and Government at the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Union. In the continuing pursuit of justice and equity, the conversation about reparations has emerged as a critical and transformative dialogue that requires the collective attention and action of Africans and all people of African descent. The scope of this conversation goes beyond historical injustices and into the current fabric of societies around the world.

To ensure that the theme and proposed actions are well understood ahead of the discussions, the AU has prepared a concept note.

It notes that the complexities of addressing past wrongs, whether they stem from colonialism, trans-Atlantic enslavement, apartheid or systemic discrimination, necessitate a thorough examination and strategic approach.

Having reparations for Africans and the people of African descent offers the AU the opportunity to take leadership on the Africa Reparations Agenda. It will also help to bring together the African citizenry and the African diaspora to build a common and united front, for the cause of justice and payment of reparations to Africans for historical crimes, and mass atrocities committed against Africans and people of African descent, including colonization, apartheid, and genocide.

Additionally, reparations as the theme of the year will further drive momentum generated over the years, for the AU Commission to promote an active AU-wide engagement on the subject of reparations, in close coordination with the AU Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), AU organs such as the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights, the African Court on Human and People’s Rights, the African Union Commission on International Law, the Pan African Parliament, the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child,  and the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption, as well as the United Nations system and other relevant partners.