Yesterday, on May 28, the French National Assembly officially abolished the "Black Code," dating from the 17th–18th centuries. The decision was adopted unanimously by deputies and was assessed as an important step towards eliminating the legal legacy of the country's colonial era.
The "Black Code" was developed under Louis XIV and was a set of documents regulating the slavery system in French colonies. It assessed slaves as "property, not human beings" and allowed them to be sold, purchased, and inherited.
Although slavery was officially abolished in France in 1848, the text of this code remained preserved in legal archives and was formally considered in effect.
The new bill was introduced by Guadeloupe deputy Max Mathiasin. The initiative was supported by almost all political forces in parliament. Only the "National Rally" party did not participate in the voting process.
During the discussions, deputies assessed this decision as an important step towards eliminating historical traces contrary to republican values and strengthening the principles of equality.
Also, representatives of France's overseas territories emphasized that socio-economic disparities between the metropolis and remote regions still persist. They requested not direct compensation, but increased investment in education, infrastructure, and social programs.
French President Emmanuel Macron called this issue "cannot be ignored." However, he approached the idea of full compensation cautiously.
"This historical crime cannot be fully compensated," said Macron.
The abolition of the "Black Code" is assessed as a decision of primarily symbolic and historical significance. It is aimed at ending legal remnants related to France's colonial past and once again affirming the principles of equality in the republic.
