France Acknowledges 1944 Massacre of Senegalese Soldiers
In a historic move on the eve of the 80th anniversary of the killings, French President Emmanuel Macron has formally recognized the 1944 deaths of West African soldiers in Thiaroye, Senegal, as a massacre.
The letter, addressed to Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, marks a significant shift in France’s acknowledgement of its colonial past. It comes at a time when Paris’ influence is waning in West Africa, with growing calls for a reckoning with past injustices.
Seeking Truth and Reconciliation
Between 35 and 400 West African soldiers who had valiantly fought for France during the Battle of France in 1940 were killed on December 1, 1944, in Thiaroye. The killings occurred after a confrontation with French troops, sparked by a dispute over unpaid wages.
President Faye confirmed receipt of Macron’s letter. Speaking to reporters, Faye expressed hope that the letter would lead to a full understanding of the “painful event” in Thiaroye.
“We have long sought closure on this story and we believe that this time France’s commitment will be full, frank, and collaborative,” Faye said.
Call for Transparency
Macron’s letter calls for transparency and a thorough investigation into the massacre. He urged France to “establish, as far as possible, the causes and facts that led to this tragedy,” and has tasked his administration to monitor the work of a newly formed Senegalese committee dedicated to uncovering the truth. This committee, established by Faye’s government, will be led by Professor Mamadou Diouf, a respected historian.
“France must recognize that on that day, the confrontation between soldiers and riflemen who demanded their full legitimate wages be paid, triggered a chain of events that resulted in a massacre,” WE Macron’s letter stated.
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A Changing Landscape in West Africa
The correspondence arrives as France faces a fluctuating relationship with its former African colonies. Faye’s recent landslide victory in the Senegalese legislative elections has given him a clear mandate to pursue ambitious reforms, many of which aim to reduce Senegal’s economic dependence on foreign companies, including French entities, who hold major investments within the country.
France currently maintains around 350 troops in Senegal, primarily in a support capacity. When questioned about the French military presence, Faye hinted that it was not something Senegalese people would support long-term.
“Historically, France enslaved, colonized, and stayed here,” Faye said. “Obviously, I think that when you
What are the next steps towards achieving a full understanding of the events at Thiaroye, according to Dr. Amina Diop?
## Interview with Historian Dr. Amina Diop on French Recognition of the Thiaroye Massacre
**Host:** Joining us today is Dr. Amina Diop, a leading historian specializing in French colonial history in West Africa. Dr. Diop, thank you for joining us today.
**Dr. Diop:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Let’s discuss the recent news. French President Emmanuel Macron has formally recognized the 1944 killings of West African soldiers in Thiaroye, Senegal as a massacre. This comes as France faces renewed calls for transparency and accountability regarding its colonial past. What are your thoughts on this recognition?
**Dr. Diop:** This is a significant moment, a long-awaited step towards acknowledging a dark chapter in French colonial history. For decades, the Thiaroye massacre has been a painful wound for Senegal and for many across West Africa. While the recognition is welcomed, it’s crucial to remember that it is only the beginning.
**Host:** Can you elaborate on the events at Thiaroye? What led to the massacre?
**Dr. Diop:** In December 1944, Senegalese soldiers who had valiantly fought for France during World War II were stationed at a camp in Thiaroye. They were demanding their promised wages, which had been withheld. When tensions escalated, French troops opened fire, killing between 35 and 400 soldiers. This act of violence exposed the brutal reality of colonial rule and the exploitation faced by African soldiers fighting for a country that ultimately denied them basic rights. [[1](https://www.france24.com/en/tv-shows/reporters/20220513-thiaroye-44-investigating-a-colonial-era-massacre-in-senegal)]
**Host:** Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has said he hopes this recognition will lead to a full understanding of “the painful event” in Thiaroye. What are the next steps towards achieving this understanding?
**Dr. Diop:** There needs to be a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the events at Thiaroye. This should include access to French archives, open dialog with survivors and their families, and a commitment to uncovering the truth without obfuscation. Furthermore, France should offer a formal apology and engage in meaningful reparations to provide justice for the victims and their descendants. This is crucial for fostering reconciliation and healing the wounds of the past.
**Host:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Diop.
