In brief
In a landmark move, Ghana's Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced a UN resolution categorizing the transatlantic slave trade as a grave crime against humanity. The proposal calls for UN member states to offer apologies and contribute to a reparations fund for the descendants of victims, aiming to address historical injustices. Despite potential resistance from nations like the UK, Ghana emphasizes the need for justice and healing. The resolution also requests the return of cultural artifacts taken during colonial times, marking a significant step towards reparative justice in international relations.
Slavery was the most horrendous crime that took place in the history of mankind, Ghana's Foreign Minister has stated ahead of a pivotal vote at the UN General Assembly.
Member states are set to vote on a resolution, led by Ghana, acknowledging the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity. The proposal urges UN member states to consider apologizing for the slave trade and contributing to a reparations fund.
The resolution is likely to encounter resistance, particularly from countries like the UK that have long opposed financial reparations, arguing that contemporary institutions shouldn't be accountable for historical injustices.
However, advocates of the resolution, including the African Union, assert that this initiative is a crucial step toward healing and achieving justice.
We are demanding compensation - and let us be clear, African leaders are not asking for money for themselves. We want justice for the victims and to support causes such as educational and skills training funds, Ablakwa emphasized.
Ablakwa also clarified that Ghana is not prioritizing its pain above others' but is instead documenting a historical truth.
From 1500 to 1800, approximately 12-15 million Africans were captured and taken to the Americas for slavery, with estimates suggesting over two million perished during the voyage. Ghana has historically been a key advocate for reparations.
The resolution additionally calls for the return of cultural artifacts looted during colonial times, representing a significant aspect of Ghana's heritage and culture. We want all those looted artefacts, which embody our heritage and spiritual significance, to be returned, Ablakwa stated.
President John Dramani Mahama termed the resolution as historic and a safeguard against forgetfulness.
