On January 24, 2025, the University of the West Indies (The UWI) officially inaugurated the One-UWI Research Cluster focused on Reparatory Justice. A statement from the university this initiative as reaffirming its dedication to prioritizing reparatory justice and sustainability within its research, teaching, and educational approaches. This online event aimed to create a global dialogue surrounding these pressing issues.
During the ceremony, Dr. Sonjah Stanley Niaah, the Cluster’s Chair and Director of the CRR, outlined the primary goals of the initiative. According to her, one of its key aims is to develop a multidisciplinary research center that brings together researchers, students, and important stakeholders to examine reparation’s historical, legal, economic, scientific, and cultural aspects. The Cluster also aims to promote international advocacy and encourage local, regional, and global discussions through public events and initiatives.
Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of The UWI, spoke about the timely and significant nature of the initiative, underscoring its importance for the larger context of higher education worldwide. He drew connections between sustainability, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the pursuit of reparatory justice, commending the Cluster’s leaders for launching this innovative project that contributes to the essential dialogue on achieving equality for all.
Professor Aldrie Henry-Lee, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Graduate Studies and Research, emphasized that the Research Cluster reflects The UWI’s deep-seated commitment to confronting the historical injustices that have influenced the Caribbean’s socio-economic conditions. She reiterated the university’s goal of helping transform the Caribbean into a region characterized by justice, equity, and sustainable development.
During the launch, Ms. Sandrea Maynard, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Global Affairs, pointed out that the establishment of the Cluster further reinforces the ongoing efforts of the CRR and The UWI. She called on researchers to focus on the legal facets of reparatory justice within their studies.
Other participants included Professor Silvia Kouwenberg, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Education and a member of the Research Cluster, and Ms. Lucy Gaffney, Company Director at The Repair Campaign. Professor Kouwenberg highlighted the significance of language in the quest for reparatory justice, while Ms. Gaffney warned that the full realization of the SDGs is contingent upon the willingness of former colonial powers to take accountability for reparative measures.
This initiative is part of The UWI’s comprehensive strategy aimed at improving the quality and influence of its research, which will inform future curriculum development and educational practices throughout the institution. Additionally, the Cluster’s activities will complement programs like The UWI/University of Glasgow Master of Arts in Reparatory Justice, which welcomed its inaugural cohort in the 2023/2024 academic year.
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