Symbolic Repeal of Slavery-Era Law After More Than a Century: France Removes Colonial-Era “Black Code” from Its Legal Records

Symbolic Repeal of Slavery-Era Law After More Than a Century: France Removes Colonial-Era “Black Code” from Its Legal Records
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France has taken a symbolic step by formally setting aside one of the most controversial legal texts inherited from its colonial past.

The law, dating back to the 17th century, defined enslaved people as property that could be bought and sold.

The move comes as debates continue in many countries over the legacy of colonialism and the historical consequences of slavery.

Reuters reported that the French Parliament voted to officially repeal the Code Noir, or Black Code, a set of laws introduced in 1685 that regulated the legal status of enslaved people in French colonies.

Although slavery was abolished in France in 1848, this legal text had never been formally removed from the country’s legal framework.

According to Reuters, the decision is largely symbolic and is intended as an act of remembrance, historical justice, and recognition of the suffering of millions of people who were subjected to slavery under this system.

The decision comes as some former French colonies are also reassessing their relations with Paris and raising historical claims linked to the colonial era.