A noteworthy investigation has been launched by the Federal Public Prosecutor's Office in Brazil, raising questions about the potential reparation for a crime against humanity. The target of this

investigation is none other than Banco do Brasil (Bank of Brazil, BB), the country's oldest public bank and one of its major financial institutions. Banco do Brasil is being implicated for its involvement in slavery and the slave trade during the 19th century.

This groundbreaking civil action was initiated following a petition signed by 14 historians who specialize in this dark chapter of Brazilian history. Julio Araujo, the Federal Public Prosecutor overseeing the case, expressed the significance of this process: "This is an unprecedented step. Brazilian justice is finally addressing the wounds inflicted by major institutions during the era of slavery and is working toward a comprehensive reparations policy."

The allegations have taken aim at a national symbol. Banco do Brasil, with its vast reach, stands as one of Latin America's largest financial institutions, boasting 86,000 employees, 75 million customers, and nearly €400 billion in assets. The Brazilian state holds a 50% stake in the bank's capital. With numerous branches across the nation, Banco do Brasil has a significant presence in almost every city in Brazil. Photo by Wikimedia commons.