Recognising that the build-up to this event could have been better, Rutte said a perfect date, time and site to satisfy everyone would be hard to find. However, doing nothing now was not an option, on the eve of the 160th anniversary of the July 1, 1863, abolition of slavery in the western Dutch territories, while for Suriname, where ex-slaves were still forced to work on the plantations another 10 years, it will be 150 years since they really gained their freedom.
King Willem Alexander was reported to be very involved with this issue, and his presence is expected at the annual commemoration in Amsterdam next year. Many hope he will also say “sorry” as formal head of state on that occasion.
Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs reiterated that the government and people of St. Maarten would not be placed on the spot to accept or deny the apologies without proper dialogue. Reservations on taking an immediate position were also expressed by leaders on the other islands and in Suriname.
All concerned agreed that words of regret alone are not enough. Among other things, a fund of 200 million euros will be made available to raise awareness, foster engagement and address present-day effects.
Although the latter obviously falls short of discussions on reparations some have called for, it’s a first step in the process towards restoration and recovery, as was repeatedly pointed out. Equally significant, the slavery past will get a substantial place in education throughout the kingdom, so, for example, when learning about the so-called “Golden Age” it is also explained to students that the wealth referred to largely came from enslavement and exploitation.
Perhaps most important was the assurance that Monday’s statements were “not a period but a comma” and this is only the beginning.
