UN General Assembly Passes Resolution Naming Transatlantic Slave Trade Gravest Crime

In Brief

The resolution's adoption highlights ongoing international debate over historical accountability and reparations for transatlantic slavery.

Key Facts

• The UN General Assembly passed a resolution recognizing the transatlantic slave trade as the 'gravest crime against humanity'.
• The resolution was led by Ghana and adopted despite resistance from some member states.
• A total of 123 countries supported the resolution, while three countries, including the US and Israel, opposed it.
• The resolution also addressed the issue of reparations for slavery, according to The Independent.
• Britain's voting position was noted in coverage of the resolution's passage.

What Happened

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a Ghana-led resolution that designates the transatlantic slave trade as the 'gravest crime against humanity', with 123 countries in support and three in opposition.

Why It Matters

The resolution marks a significant step in international recognition of the historical impact of the transatlantic slave trade and raises questions about reparations and accountability among nations.

What's Next

Attention may turn to how member states respond to the resolution, including debates on reparations and further actions within the UN framework.