Ghana urges global action on reparations

Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for renewed international efforts to secure reparatory justice for the descendants of victims of the transatlantic slave trade, arguing that the campaign represents the next chapter in Africa's long struggle against historical injustice.

Speaking at the opening of the High-Level Consultative Conference on Reparatory Justice in Accra, Mr Ablakwa told delegates that the pursuit of reparations should be viewed in the context of previous victories against slavery, colonialism and apartheid.

Addressing heads of state, foreign ministers, academics and members of the African diaspora, he said history showed that entrenched systems of oppression could be overcome through sustained advocacy and international cooperation.

"We have won the battle against slavery, we won the battle against colonialism, we won the battle against apartheid, and we are confident that we shall win the battle against reparatory injustice," he said.

Mr Ablakwa said the reparatory justice movement was rooted in centuries of resistance and efforts to address the enduring consequences of slavery and colonial rule.

He cited historical milestones, including the abolition of the slave trade in Britain and the commemoration of Juneteenth in the United States, as evidence of progress in the global struggle for freedom and equality.

The minister said the timing of the conference, which coincides with growing international debate over reparations, underscored the importance of maintaining momentum towards achieving historical redress.

According to Mr Ablakwa, the transatlantic slave trade should be afforded the same moral and legal consideration as other historical atrocities that have received international recognition and compensation.

"Just as other atrocities receive reparatory justice, so shall the transatlantic enslavement also have its day in the court of justice," he said.

The conference forms part of Ghana's wider diplomatic efforts to advance discussions on reparatory justice following the adoption of a United Nations resolution in March 2026 declaring the transatlantic slave trade a grave crime against humanity.

Organisers say the meeting aims to move the debate beyond symbolic recognition and towards practical international frameworks addressing restitution, formal apologies and historical accountability.

The gathering has brought together political leaders, policymakers and representatives of the African diaspora to discuss strategies for advancing the global reparations agenda.