Ghana to table historic UN resolution declaring transatlantic slave trade the gravest crime against humanity

ACCRA, 19th March 2026–Ghana is set to make history at the United Nations with the tabling of a resolution declaring the Transatlantic Slave Trade as the gravest crime against humanity.

This initiative, championed by President John Dramani Mahama, reflects Ghana’s ongoing commitment to reparatory justice and the recognition of historical truths.

Scheduled for consideration and adoption by the UN General Assembly on 25th March 2026,coinciding with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade,the resolution formally acknowledges the trafficking of enslaved Africans and racialized chattel enslavement as a global crime of unparalleled scale and brutality.

Endorsed by the African Union and supported by CARICOM and people of African descent worldwide, the resolution seeks to confront the enduring socio-economic and structural inequalities that stem from centuries of slavery.

Preceding the UN deliberations, Ghana will hold a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the African Burial Ground in New York on 24th March at 8:00 am, followed by a High-Level Event on Reparatory Justice at the UN Conference Room 3 at 10:00 am.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the collective efforts of the Technical Committee, African Union Commission, UNESCO, CARICOM, CELAC, Ghana’s diplomatic missions, global reparations experts, academics, and activists who contributed to drafting the historic resolution.

Ghana has urged all UN Member States to support the measure, emphasizing its significance as a step toward justice, accountability, and reconciliation.

Following the resolution’s adoption, Ghana will continue to promote reparatory justice through the African Union’s Decade of Action on Reparations and African Heritage (2026–2036).

Key officials available for media engagements include Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Deputy Minister Hon. James Gyakye Quayson, and Special Envoy for Reparations Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah.

This landmark resolution represents a global acknowledgment of historical injustices and reinforces Ghana’s leadership in advocating for equity and healing for the descendants of enslaved Africans.