Ghana Leads Historic Resolution Demanding Reparations for Slavery

Wed Mar 25 2026 13:37:14 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In a groundbreaking move, Ghana spearheads a resolution at the UN General Assembly to recognize the transatlantic slave trade as a crime against humanity, demanding reparations and an acknowledgment of historical injustices.

Ghana's Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced a resolution at the UN aimed at addressing the historical injustices of the transatlantic slave trade. The proposal calls for countries to apologize and contribute to a reparations fund while facing resistance from nations that oppose financial compensation. Advocates assert that this step is vital for justice and healing, alongside calls for the return of cultural artifacts taken during colonial times.

Ghana's Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa stated that slavery was the most horrendous crime that took place in the history of mankind ahead of a landmark vote at the UN General Assembly.

A resolution led by Ghana calls for member states to recognize the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity. It urges them to consider issuing apologies and contributing to a reparations fund.

However, the initiative may encounter resistance, particularly from nations like the UK, which has long opposed reparations, arguing that current institutions should not bear the burden for historical wrongs.

Advocates, including the African Union, argue the proposal is crucial for achieving justice and healing. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized that the demand for compensation is solely for the victims' legacy and for establishing supportive educational funds and skills training.

Between 1500 and 1800, an estimated 12-15 million Africans were captured and taken to the Americas to work as slaves, with over two million dying during the harrowing journey.

The resolution also demands the return of cultural artefacts looted during the colonial era, vital for preserving heritage and identity. Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama called this resolution historic and a necessary safeguard against forgetting a painful past.