Can Benin win back its diaspora?

In this episode of The Inquiry, Tanya Beckett explores Benin's initiative to offer nationality to descendants of enslaved people, examining the historical context of the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on West Africa. The discussion features insights from Dr. Bayo Holsey on the role of the Kingdom of Dahomey, Ana Lucia Araujo on Brazil's history with slavery and the return of emancipated people to Africa, Dr. Leonard Wantchekon on Benin's economic struggles and potential, and Tonya Lewis Lee on her role as an ambassador connecting the African diaspora with their ancestral roots. The episode delves into the complexities of reconciliation, cultural identity, and the potential for Benin to attract talent and investment from its diaspora while addressing the painful legacies of the past.