The African Union (AU) is currently convening its 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government from 14 to 16 February 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This summit focuses on the theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” addressing historical injustices and their ongoing impacts, including those related to climate change.
Africa, despite contributing minimally to global carbon emissions, disproportionately suffers from climate change effects such as extreme weather events and food insecurity. The AU emphasizes that these vulnerabilities are linked to historical exploitation and environmental degradation during colonial times. By framing climate justice as an integral component of reparative justice, the AU seeks to hold former colonial powers accountable for their role in contributing to climate-related challenges in Africa.
The reparations agenda aims to address historical injustices while tackling contemporary issues like systemic racism, economic exclusion, and Africa’s marginalization in global decision-making. It represents a call for unity among Africans and the African diaspora to advocate for justice, equity, and redress. Reparations, including climate finance, technology transfer, and the fulfilment of commitments such as the replenishment of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund, are crucial for Africa to effectively mitigate and adapt to climate challenges.
By integrating climate action into the reparations discourse, the AU advocates for comprehensive strategies that encompass financial compensation, policy reforms, and technological support to enhance Africa’s resilience against climate change. This approach not only seeks to rectify past wrongs but also aims to secure a sustainable and equitable future for the continent.
In summary, the AU’s 2025 theme underscores the intrinsic link between historical injustices and current climate challenges. By pursuing reparative justice, the AU aims to address the root causes of Africa’s vulnerability to climate change, ensuring that efforts to combat environmental issues are grounded in fairness and historical accountability.
