UN Declares African Slave Trade 'Gravest Crime' Amid Criticism

On Wednesday, the United Nations adopted a landmark resolution declaring the transatlantic African slave trade as the "gravest crime," with a vote of 123 in favor, three against, and 52 abstentions. The United States, Israel, and Argentina voted against the motion, while the United Kingdom and other EU member states abstained.

Ghana's President John Mahama, representing the African Union, voiced support for the resolution, which, although non-binding, aims to recognize and address historical injustices related to slavery. UN Secretary-General António Guterres described slavery as a devastating crime against humanity.

US Ambassador Dan Negrea criticized the resolution, arguing it attempts to categorize historical crimes. French envoy Sylvain Fournel expressed concerns about creating unnecessary comparisons among historical tragedies.

Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister, Ablakwa, outlined potential pathways for restorative justice, including the return of looted artifacts and financial compensation, emphasizing the need to address systemic racism.