The Slave Trade as the “Most Serious Crime Against Humanity”

The Slave Trade as the “Most Serious Crime Against Humanity”

The United Nations General Assembly has resolved to recognize the slave trade as the “most serious crime against humanity.” Supporters hope this step will pave the way for healing and justice. The resolution, introduced by Ghana, called for this classification and simultaneously appealed to UN member states to apologize for the slave trade and contribute to a reparations fund. No specific sum was mentioned. The proposal was adopted with 123 votes in favor and three against – from the United States, Israel, and Argentina. 52 countries abstained, including the United Kingdom and the member states of the European Union. Countries like the United Kingdom have long opposed reparations, arguing that current institutions cannot be held accountable for past injustices. This news may not be entirely accurate, as the United Nations General Assembly did not recognize the slave trade as the “most serious crime against humanity.” In February 2026, Ghana introduced a resolution to achieve this, supported by the African Union, but Europe blocked the proposal, and it was not adopted. Reports from May 2025 indicate earlier condemnation, but no formal recognition as such a crime. In March 2026, Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama submitted the proposal to the UN General Assembly to classify the transatlantic slave trade as the most serious injustice in human history and to initiate reparations debates. Over 12 million Africans were affected, fueling ongoing demands for historical reckoning and compensation. In March 2026, the resolution was put to a vote but not adopted; opposition came primarily from Europe. The debate serves as a first step toward greater recognition without forcing financial reparations.