UN condemns transatlantic slave trade as ‘crime against humanity’

The United Nations has officially designated the trans-Atlantic slave trade as “the worst crime against humanity” ever. A resolution submitted by Ghana was adopted by the General Assembly with 123 votes.

Three countries voted against: the US, Israel and Argentina. The Netherlands and 51 other member states abstained from voting. The resolution calls on countries to engage in discussions about reparations for descendants of enslaved people.

A US representative made clear that the US does not plan to do so. “We do not recognize a right to reparations for historical wrongs that were not illegal under the international law of the time,” the official said at the UN building in Latest York.

The UN vote signals a growing global momentum behind the call for reparations. While the concept has historical roots, the current wave of advocacy is fueled by a broader reckoning with systemic racism and historical injustices. President Mahama of Ghana described the resolution as an important step towards “healing and justice.”

The African Union has been at the forefront of this movement, pushing for a “united vision” within the alliance regarding compensation from former colonial powers. This reflects a growing assertion of African agency in addressing the legacies of colonialism and slavery. The recent UN resolution provides a platform for further dialogue and negotiation.

The debate around reparations is evolving beyond simply monetary compensation. Increasingly, advocates are calling for a more holistic approach that includes:

• Educational Initiatives: Investing in education about the history of slavery and its ongoing impacts.
• Economic Development Programs: Targeted investments in communities affected by slavery and its aftermath.
• Cultural Preservation: Supporting efforts to preserve and promote African culture and heritage.
• Formal Apologies: Acknowledging the harm caused by slavery and colonialism.

Despite the growing momentum, significant challenges remain. The legal and logistical complexities of determining eligibility for reparations, as well as the political opposition from some nations, are substantial hurdles. However, the UN resolution represents a crucial step towards acknowledging the enduring legacy of slavery and colonialism and fostering a more just and equitable future.

FAQ

• What is the main goal of the reparations movement?
  To address the lasting harms caused by slavery and colonialism, and to achieve justice and equity for descendants of enslaved people.
• What form could reparations seize?
  Reparations could include monetary compensation, educational programs, economic development initiatives, and formal apologies.
• Which countries voted against the UN resolution?
  The US, Israel, and Argentina.