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Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has criticised the United States’ decision to vote against the United Nations resolution recognising the transatlantic slave trade as the “gravest crime against humanity”, calling it a missed opportunity for reparative justice.
Speaking on the BBC’s Focus on Africa on Friday, March 27, Ablakwa said the vote denied the US a chance to acknowledge its historical role in the atrocities and demonstrate contrition.
“The USA voting against it is most disappointing because they know their role in this; they took part in the horrendous atrocities that happened. We will leave it to their conscience. This was an opportunity for reckoning — to show that they regret it, are contrite, are willing to apologise, and are ready to work with us on the journey towards reparatory justice,” he said.
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He urged the United States to reconsider its stance, noting that Ghana and the international community remain open to collaboration.
“Ghana’s message to the Trump administration is that you missed a golden opportunity, but it is not too late. The resolution has been passed. You now have another chance to join this broad international coalition to establish systems aimed at dismantling the pillars of discrimination and racism,” Ablakwa added.
He emphasised that joining the coalition would allow the US to play a constructive role in addressing the enduring consequences of slavery and in shaping a global framework for reparatory justice.
The resolution, presented on Wednesday by Ghana, calls for renewed global commitment to reparative justice for African nations and descendants of enslaved people. It urges UN member states to engage in structured dialogue and take concrete steps to address the long-term social, economic, and cultural effects of slavery.
After extensive deliberations, the motion secured 123 votes in favour, with the United States, Argentina, and Israel voting against, while 52 countries abstained. The US described the resolution as “highly problematic”, acknowledging the historical injustice of slavery but expressing concerns over the intended beneficiaries of reparations.
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