©️Embassy of France
Paris, 16 September 2025.- On the occasion of the bicentenary of the official recognition of the independence of Haiti by France, the Haitian Embassy organized, on Friday, September 5, at Sorbonne Nouvelle University, a panel discussion on the theme: « (Re)thinking Franco-Haitian bicentennial relations: prospecting and prospects ». Researchers, academics and diplomats called for a renewed partnership, beyond the humanitarian prism, and raised the issue of restorative justice.
Organized within the framework of La Fabrique de la Diplomacy, an initiative of the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, this meeting brought together experts such as Magali Bessone (Political Philosophy, Paris 1), Éric Sauray (jurist), Myriam Cottias (historian, CNRS), Pierre-Yves Bocquet (Foundation for the Memory of Slavery), under the moderation of Jean-Marie Théodat, professor and geographer.
The interventions recalled that Franco-Haitian relations were marked by strong inequalities, inherited from colonial history and Charles X's ordinance of 1825, imposing on Haiti a colossal ransom for its recognition. The need for recognition of historical facts, restitution and rebalancing of reports was stressed.
Beyond the past, participants emphasized the strength of cultural ties and the need to build a new era of partnership, based on equality, academic cooperation and knowledge diplomacy.
In his speech, Ambassador Louino Volcy recalled that this initiative is part of a crucial historical context and aims to pave the way for a « shared common destiny » between Haiti and France.
The attendance, made up of students in international relations, officials of the Quai d'Orsay, university officials and personalities, including the co-chairs of the joint Haitian-French commission, Gusti Gaillard and Yves Saint-Geours, enriched the debate with intense exchanges.
W.A.
