The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) has warmly welcomed the recent adoption by the United Nations General Assembly of resolution A/80/L.48, which officially recognises the transatlantic slave trade as one of the gravest crimes against humanity.

The resolution, led by the Republic of Ghana, marks a historic step in the global acknowledgement of this dark chapter in history.

In a statement issued on Thursday, March 26, the AUC Chairperson commended the President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama for his exemplary leadership in championing the resolution.

This leadership, the Chairperson noted, reflects Africa’s longstanding and principled call for full recognition of the slave trade and its enduring consequences.

“This historic decision marks an important step toward truth, justice, and healing, and reinforces the urgent need to address the enduring legacy of slavery,” the Chairperson said.

Reiterating the African Union’s commitment to addressing the legacies of slavery, the Chairperson emphasised the necessity of comprehensive acknowledgment of both the historical and contemporary impacts of slavery.

This includes the pursuit of reparative justice, in accordance with Agenda 2063 and relevant decisions by the African Union Assembly.

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The African Union pledged to continue working closely with the United Nations, member states, and partners worldwide to advance historical justice and ensure that crimes of such magnitude are neither forgotten nor repeated.

"The African Union remains committed to working with the United Nations, Member States, and partners to advance historical justice and ensure that such crimes are neither forgotten nor repeated," the statement conclude.