A historic event took place on Tuesday 21 January 2025 at the Élysée Palace. The joint Franco-Cameroonian commission, tasked with studying France’s role in the repression of independence movements in Cameroon between 1945 and 1971, submitted its report to President Emmanuel Macron. Set up in February 2023 and co-chaired by historian Karine Ramondy and Cameroonian artist Blick Bassy, the commission conducted in-depth research to shed light on a dark period in the history of France and Cameroon. The work was carried out by a multidisciplinary team of historians, sociologists and local experts, keen to shed light on past events and promote reconciliation.
The presentation of the report took place in a solemn setting, in the presence of the Director of the Civil Cabinet of the President of Cameroon, Paul Biya, who represented his country. This choice symbolises the desire of the two states to come to terms with their shared past and build a future based on truth and reconciliation.
The final report, the fruit of several months of research, is expected to shed new light on the events that marked the decolonisation of Cameroon. It is eagerly awaited by historians, politicians and civil society in both countries.
Meanwhile, the report will also be presented to Cameroonian President Paul Biya at a ceremony in Yaoundé on 28 January. This bilateral approach underlines the importance attached by both countries to this reconciliation process. It is important to note that the publication of this report is the first step. Remembrance and reconciliation are long-term processes that require the commitment of everyone.