The French Foundation for the Memory of Slavery is convinced that France must confront its history of slavery, both abroad and in its overseas territories. This call is directed at the government on the occasion of the bicentennial, on April 17, marking the 1825 royal ordinance that granted Haiti independence in exchange for an exorbitant debt of 150 million gold francs, a burden from which the country has never recovered.

Chaired by former Socialist Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, the foundation discreetly initiated a discussion on reparations in 2024. Haitian writer Yanick Lahens, Martinican béké leader Bernard Hayot (békés are descendants of colonial slaveholders), Réunionese historian Prosper Eve and scientific director of the Nantes history museum Krystel Gualdé, were among the personalities gathered in December 2024 to discuss four themes: international issues, Overseas territories, racism and discrimination, and cultural restitution. The content of these workshops, to which Le Monde had exclusive access before they were made public.

"There was a consensus on the notion of slavery reparations," said Ayrault at the end of January, following these workshops. He stated that they state "the desire for France to engage in this matter, as many other countries and international institutions have done, such as the UN, the African Union, the Caribbean Community, the United States, Brazil, the Netherlands, and more broadly, regarding colonial memory: Germany, Belgium."

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