EU apologises for slavery

European negotiators at the World Conference against Racism have agreed to back an apology on slavery and colonialism.

The move is aimed at fending off lawsuits seeking reparations for ill treatment in Europe.

While the conference’s documents are not legally binding, once adopted all countries promise to fulfil the applicable pledges made.

Meanwhile, African countries are still pushing for slavery and colonialism to be labelled ‘crimes against humanity’ and for the West to pay reparations.

The EU rejected both calls. Zimbabwean Minister of Justice Patrick Chinamasa said of the EU, “They are more worried about their wallets than moral issues.”