Dutch King Apologises For Countries Role in Slavery

The APPG for Afrikan Reparations applauds the Government of the Netherlands who, along with the Dutch king, Willem-Alexander, have issued formal apologies for the past actions of the Dutch State.

In July, the king formally apologised on the 160th anniversary of the legal abolition of slavery in the Netherlands, asking for “forgiveness for this crime against humanity.”

Huis ten Bosch Palace in The Hague, residence of King Willem-Alexander and his family. Photograph: Laser Cheung

In December 2021, Prime Minister Mark Rutte, gave an apology at the National Archives, the Hague, in the presence of representatives of organisations that have pressed for acknowledgement of the effects of slavery.

Apologies can be a basis for meaningful action. As it stands, the UK risks falling behind. It is time for the UK to join the global discussion and take meaningful steps towards reparations.