UN Declares African Slave Trade as ‘Gravest Crime’ in History

The United Nations General Assembly made a historic declaration on Wednesday, labeling the trafficking of enslaved Africans as “the gravest crime against humanity” and urging reparations as a vital step to correct historical injustices.

In a decisive resolution, the Assembly called for the immediate, unencumbered return of cultural artifacts—including artworks, monuments, and national archives—to their countries of origin without financial obligation.

The resolution passed with overwhelming support, securing 123 votes in favor, while Argentina, Israel, and the United States opposed it, and 52 countries, including the United Kingdom and European Union members, chose to abstain.

In the United States, discussions around reparations have intensified since the murder of George Floyd in 2020, sparking debates over how public institutions address race, history, and inequality. Yet, the path remains fraught with challenges due to a broader conservative backlash.

While General Assembly resolutions lack the legal binding power of those from the Security Council, they significantly capture global sentiment.

Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, pivotal in drafting the resolution, addressed the assembly, stating, “We stand united to assert truth and seek a path to healing and reparative justice.” He emphasized that adopting this measure is crucial to prevent the erasure of painful histories, honoring the memory of those who endured slavery’s dehumanization.

Speaking for many Western nations, the U.K.’s acting U.N. Ambassador, James Kariuki, highlighted the need to remember slavery’s profound and lasting legacy. He underscored the commitment to combating ongoing issues like racial discrimination, modern slavery, and exploitation in various forms.

The resolution strongly condemns African enslavement and the transatlantic slave trade, identifying them as the most enduring and inhumane injustices. It underscores the importance of addressing slavery’s historical wrongs to promote justice, human rights, and healing.

The resolution urges U.N. member states to engage in dialogues on reparatory justice, including formal apologies and measures for restitution, compensation, and reforms addressing systemic discrimination.

Furthermore, it invites voluntary contributions to enhance education about the transatlantic slave trade and encourages collaboration between the African Union, Caribbean Community, Organization of American States, and other international bodies on reparatory justice and reconciliation.