Ghana is preparing to submit a formal resolution to the United Nations General Assembly that would designate the transatlantic slave trade as the “gravest crime in the history of humankind” and establish a framework for reparations.
The West African nation, which has become a leading voice for historical accountability on the continent, expects to table the proposal as early as this month. According to a statement from Ghana’s Foreign Ministry, the resolution aims to address the trade’s “scale, duration, legalisation and enduring consequences.”
The move follows a surge in momentum for the reparations movement, including a recent endorsement from the African Union (AU). Last month, AU leaders backed the resolution as part of a “unified vision” for the 55-member bloc. Support is also expected from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which has long advocated for its own reparations plan.
Despite the growing international coalition, the proposal faces significant headwinds in Europe. Several European leaders have resisted discussions on the topic, arguing that contemporary institutions should not be held liable for historical injustices.
Addressing potential friction, the Foreign Ministry stated: “A backlash against truth is one that we hope would not occur. Ghana is not seeking to reopen old wounds but to heal those wounds with truth.”
The proposed resolution is seen as a critical step toward the potential creation of a special U.N. reparations tribunal. While the specific nature of reparations remains under discussion, the African Union has indicated that the scope could range from formal apologies and policy reforms to financial compensation.