Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has stated that the United States would not have supported the landmark United Nations resolution on reparatory justice for the transatlantic slave trade—regardless of how much time was given for negotiations.

Speaking at a press conference at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on March 25, 2026, following the adoption of Resolution A-80-L48, he dismissed claims that the process had been rushed.

“Even if we gave them 50 years, they would say that the time is not enough,” he said.

The resolution, which recognises the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity, was backed by 123 member states. However, the United States, Israel and Argentina voted against it, while 52 countries—including the United Kingdom—abstained.

U.S. Objections


Washington, in its official explanation, argued that it does not recognise a legal right to reparations for acts that were not considered illegal under international law at the time they occurred. It also raised concerns that the resolution could create a hierarchy among crimes against humanity, potentially diminishing the suffering of victims of other atrocities.

However, Ablakwa rejected these arguments, insisting that the resolution does not rank crimes but instead addresses a specific historical injustice.

“We are only speaking to a historical fact… never in the history of mankind have we had such a systemic crime,” he said.

‘Extensive, Not Rushed’ Negotiations


The Minister emphasised that the process leading to the resolution was thorough and inclusive. He noted that President John Dramani Mahama first gave formal notice of the initiative at the UN in September 2025, followed by multiple rounds of consultations involving global experts, historians and researchers.

“In the history of the United Nations, this has been a resolution that has gone through so many rounds of consultations,” he added.

Focus on Structural Justice, Not Cash Payments


Addressing concerns about reparations, Ablakwa clarified that the resolution is not about direct financial payments to governments but rather long-term solutions to structural inequalities.

Proposals include:


  • Education and skills development funds

  • Support for entrepreneurship

  • Broader development-focused interventions

“We do not want any payments made to us directly… we are talking about causes to deal with structural inequalities,” he explained.

He also highlighted calls for the return of looted cultural artefacts from Africa, including items linked to the Ashanti Kingdom and ancient Egypt.

Historical Impact and Next Steps


Ablakwa underscored the lasting impact of the transatlantic slave trade, noting that over 12.5 million Africans were forcibly taken, with millions dying during the Middle Passage.

He pointed out that UNESCO recognises Ghana as having the highest number of slave forts and castles globally, reinforcing the country’s central role in the history being addressed.

The Minister described the resolution’s adoption as a starting point rather than a conclusion, urging all countries—including those that opposed or abstained—to engage in constructive dialogue moving forward.

“The work of justice does not end with remembrance,” he said, calling for meaningful progress as the world approaches the 100th anniversary of the 1926 Slavery Convention.