The United Nations General Assembly has officially proclaimed the transatlantic African slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity, following an initiative led by Ghana aimed at advancing justice and formal apologies.
The resolution, adopted on March 25, 2026, passed with 123 votes in favor, 3 against—United States, Israel, and Argentina—and 52 abstentions, including the United Kingdom and members of the European Union.
Speaking on behalf of the African Group, Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama described the moment as one of “solemn solidarity,” emphasizing the need to acknowledge historical truth and pave the way for healing and reparative justice.
The resolution highlights that the enslavement and trafficking of Africans represent the most severe crimes against humanity due to their scale, duration, systemic nature, brutality, and lasting global consequences, including the persistence of racial inequalities in modern economic and social systems.
The declaration coincided with the observance of the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery, during which UN officials reflected on the enduring legacy of slavery.
President of the General Assembly Annalena Baerbock described slavery as one of the most serious human rights violations in history and “an affront” to the principles of the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for global efforts to address the lasting impacts of slavery, including racism and inequality, while honoring the resilience and resistance of millions of victims.
