UN designates African slave trade as ‘gravest crime against humanity’

The United Nations passed a resolution, backed by the African Union and Caricom, to describe the transatlantic chattel slave trade as the "gravest crime against humanity" and called for reparations. The resolution, proposed by Ghana's president, aims to recognize the historical wrongs and lingering impact of slavery. While 123 states voted in favor, Argentina, Israel, and the US voted against, and 52 abstained. The resolution comes as advocates push for acknowledgement and repair of the legacies of enslavement, citing its connection to global challenges like inequality and racism. Ghana has been at the forefront of the effort for reparatory justice, seeking to update the terminology used to describe the trade to reflect its true nature and impact. Experts say the resolution seeks political recognition at the highest level for this dark era in history.

The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution, proposed by Ghana, recognizing transatlantic slavery as the "gravest crime against humanity." The resolution, supported by 123 countries, aims to address the lasting consequences of slavery and calls for accountability, potentially paving the way for reparations. The vote, held on Wednesday, saw opposition from the US and Israel, while 52 countries, including the UK and EU members, abstained. Ghana emphasized the resolution's importance in acknowledging the ongoing impact of slavery and seeking justice for the millions who suffered. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged bolder action from states to confront historical injustices.

Ghana is leading a UN General Assembly resolution to recognize the transatlantic slave trade as a "gravest crime against humanity" and is demanding compensation for its victims. The resolution urges member states to consider apologizing and contributing to a reparations fund, which would support educational programs, skills training, and endowment funds. Ghana's Foreign Minister emphasizes that African leaders are not seeking personal financial gain, but justice for the victims. The resolution also calls for the return of cultural artifacts looted during the colonial era. Ghana, a major gateway for the slave trade, views the resolution as a step towards healing and a safeguard against forgetting the historical atrocities.

In March 2026, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution, led by Ghana, recognizing transatlantic slavery as the "gravest crime against humanity." The resolution passed despite opposition from the United States, Israel, Argentina, and several European nations. The resolution acknowledges the historical significance and lasting impact of transatlantic slavery. It aims to promote awareness, education, and remembrance of the victims and legacies of this historical injustice. The specific reasons for the resistance from the dissenting countries were not detailed in the provided article.