Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has said the adoption of a Ghana-led United Nations resolution declaring slavery a crime against humanity marks a clear moment of truth for the global community.

Speaking after the declaration of the votes on Ghana-led resolution declaring slavery a crime against humanity, he said the decision reflects a shared moral position by the international community.

“Today, through this resolution, the world has spoken with clarity and truth,” he stated.

The resolution, which affirms that the trafficking of enslaved Africans and their racialised chattel enslavement constitute the gravest crime against humanity, received overwhelming support at the Assembly.

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According to the Minister, 123 member states voted in favour, 52 abstained, and only three voted against.

“This is an emphatic victory, an emphatic justice victory. Our ancestors and all people of African descent are honoured today. Our humanity and our dignity have been restored.”

He expressed appreciation to countries that supported the resolution, while recognising that not all member states shared the same position.

“We support those who engage in a spirit of dialogue and reflection. We acknowledge that views differ, and we note positions taken by delegations that could not support the resolution at this time,” he said.

He said that the resolution is not about assigning blame, but about ensuring that history is properly acknowledged and understood.

“This resolution is not about apportioning blame across generations or nations. It is not about reopening old wounds. It is about ensuring that those wounds are neither forgotten nor denied,” he explained.

He added that the goal is to create space for honest engagement on history and its lasting effects.

“It is about creating space for truth, for education and for a more honest global conversation that allows us to move forward together with greater understanding,” he said.

The Foreign Affairs Minister further noted that while history can be complex, certain events stand out because of their scale and lasting impact.

“History is layered. It is complex and at times uncomfortable. But this resolution recognises that even within that complexity, there are moments that stand apart,” he said.

He described the adoption of the resolution as an important step, but not the end of the process.

“The adoption of this text is not an arrival at the destination, but rather a major step in our ongoing conversation,” he said, adding that Ghana and its partners remain committed to continued engagement with all UN member states.

Mr Ablakwa also highlighted the broader significance of the resolution for future generations.

“What we have achieved today helps all of us in our renewed commitment to remembrance, so that future generations inherit truth, not silence,” he said on Wednesday.

He added that the move would also strengthen efforts in education, dialogue and cooperation.

“It will ensure that history is taught with honesty and integrity… and that we address the enduring legacies of history in ways that unite rather than divide,” he said.