UK, Netherlands, Denmark ready to work with Ghana on reparatory justice – Ablakwa

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced that several European nations, including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Denmark, are prepared to collaborate with Ghana in advancing the cause of reparatory justice. This willingness to engage on the issue came after the United Nations adopted a resolution on March 25, 2026, recognizing transatlantic enslavement as the gravest crime against humanity.

Mr Ablakwa made these remarks during a High-Level Side Event on the Next Steps, co-hosted by President John Dramani Mahama in New York.

The Foreign Minister stated that Ghana’s pursuit of reparatory justice was not intended to divide the international community, but rather to foster unity and reconciliation. He added that the willingness of European countries to work with Ghana on the reparatory justice agenda was a testament to the fact that the initiative aimed to heal, not to divide.

According to Mr Ablakwa, the discussions surrounding reparatory justice would be challenging and emotionally charged, but emphasized the need for open dialogue and collaboration among nations.

Ghana received similar indications of willingness to collaborate on reparatory justice from Portugal following a bilateral meeting with the country’s Foreign Minister. The discussions surrounding reparatory justice are expected to be difficult and emotive, but Ghana’s government remains committed to forging a new path of reconciliation and healing.

Mr Ablakwa stressed that Ghana’s objective is to help create a world free from racism, discrimination, and the enduring consequences of transatlantic enslavement. He reiterated that this effort is not about reopening old wounds, but about seeking genuine healing and collaboration to build a new world together. Ghana’s efforts in this regard are led by President Mahama, who serves as the African Union Champion for Reparations, and are aimed at translating the UN resolution into concrete actions through international dialogue and cooperation.