Reconstruction and reparations: Lessons from China and the Pan-African world

Abstract

This article addresses the role of the university and institutions of higher learning in carrying out the mandate of the World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance (WCAR), held in Durban, South Africa in 2001. The active contribution of the university is anticipated in Article 98 of the Programme of Action published in the Report of the World Conference (2001), which clearly states: We emphasize the importance and necessity of teaching about the facts and truth of the history of humankind from antiquity to the recent past, as well as of teaching about the facts and truth of the history, causes, nature and consequences of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, with a view to achieving a comprehensive and objective cognizance of the tragedies of the past. The documents leading up to the WCAR and the final conference declaration set forth a concrete framework for combating racism. Central to this framework was the declaration that the trans-Atlantic slave trade was a crime against humanity and that reparations were needed. It is the contention here that the reparations movement is central to peace and reconstruction in the 21st century. The article draws lessons from the peace and justice movement in an effort to analyse the ways in which the work in the university can support peace and reconstruction in all parts of the world. Within the Pan-African world the reparations movement is very wide, ranging from those who seek monetary compensation to those who view reparations and social justice as central platforms for healing humanity. The current rapid expansion of Sino-African relations offers new perspectives and opportunities for universities to help steer these relations toward principles that will promote peace and true reconstruction.