France acknowledges colonial-era violence in Cameroon

August 12, 2025 / 11:37 PM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: French President Emmanuel Macron has acknowledged in a letter to Cameroonian President Paul Biya that France waged a "war" in Cameroon during and after decolonisation, marked by "repressive violence." This admission follows a joint Franco‑Cameroonian historians’ commission report detailing the violence committed between 1945 and 1971.

Recognition of historical responsibility

In the letter, Macron affirmed that it is his duty to accept France’s role and responsibility in these events. He recognized the report's findings outlining the repression conducted by colonial authorities and the French army, including mass forced displacements and support for violent militias after Cameroon’s independence in 1960.

Toward reconciliation and transparency

To move forward, Macron committed to opening French archives related to the colonial era, facilitating historical research, and establishing a bilateral working group to implement the commission’s recommendations. These actions aim to enhance reconciliation and fortify Franco‑Cameroonian relations.