Ghana records progress on reparatory justice agenda – Ablakwa

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa reported that Ghana has made significant strides in its pursuit of reparatory justice following the adoption of a United Nations resolution that declared the transatlantic slave trade the greatest crime against humanity. Speaking during an interview on TV3 on October 10, 2026, Ablakwa highlighted the support of 123 UN member states, which bolstered international momentum for restitution, apologies, and other measures to address historical injustices stemming from slavery.

He credited President John Dramani Mahama's leadership, who serves as the African Union Champion for Reparatory Justice, and Ghana's diplomatic efforts at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York for the progress made. Ablakwa emphasized that Ghana's involvement in the global meeting was strategic, encompassing discussions on railway development, artificial intelligence governance, agriculture, and trade expansion, alongside reparatory justice advocacy.

A side event organized by Ghana on reparatory justice drew international support, including participation from several European nations that had previously abstained from the resolution, suggesting a shift towards engagement. Noteworthy developments included an apology by French President Emmanuel Macron, France repealing its Code Noir, and plans to establish a scientific commission in Accra with Ghana to research the history and legacy of slavery.

Denmark's apology and commitment to support the preservation of Ghana's historical forts and castles, which were previously in deteriorated condition, were also highlighted. Additionally, apologies from Pope Leo XIV and the Archbishop of Canterbury, along with the Church of England's pledge of a £100 million fund for young African entrepreneurs and scholars, marked significant milestones.

The Netherlands and Germany returned more than 2,000 artefacts to Ghana, with the latter returning the head of King Badu II, signifying African resistance against slave raiders. Ghana established three global panels to advance the reparatory justice agenda, with the first panel chaired by President Mahama, focusing on reparatory justice.

These achievements underscored that Ghana's campaign was yielding tangible results and fostering international cooperation on reparatory justice.