Amnesty International has welcomed the adoption of a United Nations resolution recognising the enslavement of Africans as a crime against humanity, calling it a major step toward long-awaited justice.

The resolution, passed by the United Nations General Assembly with 123 countries in support, was tabled by Ghana on behalf of Africa and the people of African descent.

It seeks to push the global community beyond the acknowledgement and toward real conversations and actions on reparations.

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In a statement after the vote, by Amnesty International on March 26, 2026, praised the decision as a breakthrough in the global fight for recognition and accountability.

“Amnesty International welcomes the recognition of chattel enslavement of Africans as a crime against humanity at the UN General Assembly, following a resolution tabled by Ghana on behalf of the African continent and people of African descent,” the organisation said.

The group stressed that the impact of slavery and colonialism is far from over, pointing to the inequalities and racism still experienced today.

“Across the world, people are still suffering the long-lasting effects of slavery and colonialism, manifesting in today’s racism and global inequality, while States and private actors profited from these historical injustices,” Amnesty International noted.

Describing the resolution as a turning point, the organisation said it lays a foundation for justice and redress.

“Today’s resolution is a momentous step forward for legal recognition and reparations for those who have suffered the enduring harms of chattel enslavement around the world,” Amnesty said.

The initiative, led by Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, calls on former slave-trading nations to engage African countries and the African Union in a meaningful dialogue.

Proposed measures include compensation, debt relief, development support, and the return of stolen cultural artefacts.

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