Foreign affairs minister briefs diplomatic corps on UN resolution on slavery reparations

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on 29 April 2026, held a briefing session with members of the Diplomatic Corps in Ghana on United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/80/250, which declared the trafficking of enslaved Africans and racialised chattel enslavement of Africans as the gravest crime against humanity.

He described the adoption of the resolution as a historic milestone, stating it represents formal acknowledgement by the international community of the grave injustice of the transatlantic slave trade and its enduring consequences.

He said the resolution recognises the trafficking and enslavement of Africans as crimes against humanity whose effects are transgenerational, systemic and continue to shape global inequalities.

He further stated that the resolution marks a shift from denial to responsibility and constructive engagement, and underscored the importance of reparatory justice, including restitution of cultural property such as artefacts, manuscripts and other heritage items removed from affected communities.

He said these are essential for restoring historical dignity, reclaiming cultural identity and addressing the legacy of injustice.

He indicated that the resolution provides a framework for sustained global dialogue on reparatory justice and institutional reform. He stressed that Ghana remains committed to engaging all partners in good faith, and that the process should be pursued in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.

He announced that a High-Level Consultative Conference will be held from 17 to 19 June 2026 to consolidate international momentum and shape a structured, inclusive and action-oriented global pathway.

The conference will bring together Heads of State and Government, policymakers, scholars and civil society actors to deliberate on key aspects of reparatory justice, including legal frameworks and implementation mechanisms.

As part of the programme, participants will undertake a commemorative activity at Christiansborg Castle, Osu in Accra, a site linked to the transatlantic slave trade. The event will coincide with Juneteenth, symbolising solidarity with people of African descent.

The Minister said Ghana will sustain constructive engagement with all stakeholders on reparatory justice to achieve the objectives of the resolution and expressed gratitude to the Diplomatic Corps for their continued engagement.