The National Assembly of France unanimously voted to repeal the 'Black Code', a law from the 17th century that regulated slavery.

On Thursday, the National Assembly of France unanimously voted to repeal the 'Code Noir', a law from 1685 that allowed the treatment of slaves as property. The vote, with 254 votes in favor, represents a significant step in acknowledging France's role in slavery and opens the way for discussions about reparations, according to President Emmanuel Macron. He emphasized that silence regarding this law was a form of insult. During the debate, Deputy Steevy Gustave expressed the deep emotion of the descendants of slaves, highlighting the devastating impact of slavery. The code, which contained 60 articles, regulated every aspect of the lives of slaves, including punishment for escape. Its repeal is seen as a way to rehabilitate ancestors and to honor the principles of freedom and equality. France, the third largest nation involved in the slave trade, transported 1.4 million Africans to its colonies, and the repeal of the law is an important step in acknowledging this painful history.