The United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly designated the Transatlantic Trafficking of Enslaved Africans and the system of racialised chattel enslavement as “the gravest crime against humanity” on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. The resolution passed with 123 votes in favour, while Argentina, Israel, and the United States voted against it, and 52 member states abstained.
A Historic Declaration
Ghana spearheaded the resolution, with President John Dramani Mahama stating, “Today, we come together in solemn solidarity to affirm truth and pursue a route to healing and reparative justice,” on behalf of the 54-member African Group. The resolution recognizes the “definitive break in world history, scale, duration, systemic nature, brutality and enduring consequences” of the slave trade, and its continuing impact on global structures of labour, property, and capital.
For over 400 years, millions were stolen from Africa and forced into brutal labour in the Americas. Denied their basic humanity, the repercussions of this exploitation continue to fuel anti-Black racism and discrimination today.
Differing Perspectives
While the resolution garnered broad support, the United States, represented by Ambassador Dan Negrea to the UN Economic and Social Council, expressed reservations. The US representative stated the resolution was “highly problematic” and regretted the UN’s involvement in establishing “niche International Days” and “costly meeting and reporting mandates.” the US does not recognize a legal right to reparations for historical wrongs that were not illegal under international law at the time they occurred.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for confronting slavery’s lasting legacies and removing barriers to equality for people of African descent. He emphasized the importance of the Second International Decade for People of African Descent and the African Union’s Decade of Reparations in driving action toward systemic change.
The Call for Justice
Poet Laureate of Barbados, Esther Philips, powerfully articulated the sentiment of many, stating, “Notice spirits of the victims of slavery present in this room at this moment, and they are listening for one word only: justice.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the UN General Assembly vote on?
The UN General Assembly voted to designate the Transatlantic Trafficking of Enslaved Africans and the system of racialised chattel enslavement as “the gravest crime against humanity.”
Which countries voted against the resolution?
Argentina, Israel, and the United States voted against the resolution.
What did the US representative say about reparations?
The US representative stated that the US “does not recognise a legal right to reparations for historical wrongs that were not illegal under international law at the time they occurred.”
As the international community formally acknowledges the gravity of the slave trade, what steps will be taken to translate this recognition into meaningful action and address its enduring consequences?
