Ghana takes transatlantic slavery case to UN

Deutsche Welle

February 22, 2026

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Ghanaian President John Mahama is leading a historic initiative at the United Nations (UN) to recognize transatlantic slavery as the "gravest crime against humanity." With backing from 40 African Union (AU) member states, Mahama plans to present a resolution to the UN General Assembly in March, marking a significant step toward acknowledging this dark chapter in global history. The proposal, supported by AU nations, aims to highlight the legal and historical validity of transatlantic slavery, which forced millions of Africans into servitude between the 15th and 19th centuries. While Mahama emphasized that the resolution focuses on recognition rather than immediate financial reparations, it sets the stage for future discussions on justice and compensation. The transatlantic slave trade remains one of the most devastating events in human history, with an estimated 12 to 12.8 million Africans enslaved and transported to the Americas and Caribbean. Of these, only about 10.7 million arrived alive, while millions perished during the brutal Middle Passage. The resolution seeks to tell this "truth" about the slave trade, acknowledging its profound impact on affected nations and their descendants. Mahama noted that the initiative is not just about the past but also about addressing how this history continues to shape global inequalities. Despite strong AU support, the proposal faces resistance from some Western nations, particularly the United States, where conservative circles argue against accountability for historical actions. This issue is deeply political, as many former slave-trading countries profited economically from slavery and colonialism. Meanwhile, younger generations in Africa and beyond are increasingly vocal about the need for justice, though they also recognize the importance of focusing on present-day governance and development. The resolution aligns with the AU's broader theme of 2025 as "The Year of Reparations," which seeks to address historical injustices through reparations. While Mahama clarified that financial compensation is not the immediate focus, the initiative opens doors for future discussions on how to support affected communities. The effort reflects a growing

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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/22/2026