Nigeria has joined Ghana and 121 other UN member states in adopting a resolution that declares the transatlantic slave trade the gravest crime against humanity. The resolution, spearheaded by Ghana, received overwhelming support with 123 votes in favour. However, three countries - Argentina, Israel, and the United States - voted against the resolution, while 52 countries abstained.
The resolution was passed in commemoration of the Second International Decade for People of African Descent and the African Union's Decade of Reparations. Ghana's President John Mahama spoke on behalf of the 54-member African Group, urging nations to acknowledge the truth and pursue reparative justice. Mahama noted that millions of people were forcibly taken from Africa, subjected to inhumane treatment, and denied their basic humanity.
The resolution highlights the transatlantic slave trade as a definitive break in world history, with far-reaching consequences that continue to affect people of African descent. It also emphasizes the importance of addressing historical wrongs and promoting justice, human rights, dignity, and healing. The resolution acknowledges that claims for reparations represent a concrete step towards remedy.
UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock described slavery as an affront to the principles enshrined in the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Baerbock noted that the countries where enslaved Africans were taken from suffered a "hollowing out," having lost entire generations who could have contributed to their development.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for confronting the lasting legacies of slavery, including inequality and racism. He urged countries to drive action to eradicate systemic racism, ensure reparatory justice, and promote inclusive development.
The United States and Israel's opposition to the resolution is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for reparations and justice for the descendants of enslaved Africans. The fact that the US claims historical wrongs were not illegal under international law at the time is a disturbing admission of the country's complicity in the transatlantic slave trade. The resolution's emphasis on reparations as a concrete step towards remedy is a crucial step towards acknowledging the harm inflicted on African people. As the UN Secretary-General notes, it is time to confront the lasting legacies of slavery and ensure reparatory justice. The Nigerian government must now take concrete steps to address the historical wrongs committed against its people and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
