News|SlaveryUN passes resolution naming slave trade ‘gravest crime against humanity’Resolution on transatlantic slavery supported by 123 countries, while three opposed it – including the US and Israel.
## United Nations Resolution on Transatlantic Slavery
United Nations Resolution on Transatlantic Slavery
The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proposed by Ghana to recognize transatlantic slavery as a significant crime against humanity and to call for reparations. The resolution, which is not legally binding but holds political significance, was supported by 123 countries. The United States and Israel opposed, while 52 countries, including the United Kingdom and European Union members, abstained.
The resolution aims to address the enduring consequences of slavery, which involved the abduction and sale of approximately 12.5 million Africans between the 15th and 19th centuries. The initiative seeks to address racial disparities that persist today. Ghana's President, John Dramani Mahama, and Foreign Minister, Samuel Ablakwa, emphasized the resolution as a step toward healing and reparative justice.
The resolution encourages member states to engage in discussions regarding reparations, including formal apologies, the return of stolen artifacts, financial compensation, and guarantees of non-repetition. The resolution follows efforts by the African Union to create a unified vision among its 55 member states on reparative justice.
The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proposed by Ghana to recognize transatlantic slavery as a significant crime against humanity and to call for reparations.
The Netherlands is the sole European country to have issued a formal apology for its historical involvement in slavery. However, the resolution has faced opposition from some Western leaders who argue against holding current states and institutions accountable for historical injustices. Concerns have been raised that the resolution may suggest a hierarchy among crimes against humanity.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for more comprehensive actions from states to confront historical injustices. Despite the resolution's passage, the debate over reparations continues, with varying perspectives on how to address the legacy of transatlantic slavery.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
