Caribbean advocate for Church of England slave trade reparations appointed as chancelor of UN University

Prof. Sir Hilary Beckles takes on an honorary role at United Nations University. He has previously led calls for the Church of England to accept its historic role in the transatlantic slave trade UWI multimedia news screenshot The Governance Council of the United Nations University unanimously appointed Professor Sir Hilary Beckles as its honorary chairman/chancellor, effective May 2025. The announcement, made during a meeting in Tokyo, Japan, on Dec. 7, coincides with the university’s 50th anniversary, according to a Jan. 7 press release from the University of the West Indies (UWI) St. Augustine. Beckles, the vice chancellor of UWI, is renowned for his leadership in advocating for reparatory justice and addressing the historic role of institutions, including the Church of England, in the transatlantic slave trade. He described the appointment as a “signal honor” for UWI, enhancing the university’s global reputation. In his honorary role, Beckles will provide leadership to the rector and council of the UN University, based in Tokyo, and guide its strategic direction. According to UWI, his mandate includes fostering confidence among international stakeholders, including United Nations leadership, faculty, private investors, and students. Beckles brings extensive experience to the role, having served the UN in various senior...