Ghana is hosting a three-day conference in Accra with representatives from over 80 countries, aiming to advance the continent's push for reparatory justice following the UN resolution that declared the transatlantic slave trade a crime against humanity.

The conference, titled 'Next Steps', brings together heads of state, ministers, civil society, historians, and legal experts. It includes an event on June 19 at Osu Castle, a former slave trading hub, to honor Juneteenth.

Expected speakers include African Union Commission Chair Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados, and Presidents John Mahama, Joseph Boakai, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, and Emmanuel Macron.

Participants are discussing five objectives, including formulating a global framework for the resolution and establishing panels on reparatory justice and restitution. Organizers aim to 'transform political momentum into concrete institutional commitment.'

The UN General Assembly adopted the resolution three months ago, with 123 votes in favor, three against (US, Israel, Argentina), and 52 abstentions (including UK and EU states). The transatlantic slave trade lasted about 400 years.

Ghana's concept note describes the resolution as a 'fundamental departure' from commemorative gestures toward historical truth and dialogue. It recognizes ongoing legacies of enslavement and calls for inclusive dialogue on reparatory justice and restitution of cultural property.

The conference has already spurred action: French President Macron used the term 'reparations,' and Pope Leo XIV apologized for the Vatican's role in legitimizing slavery. Kyeretwie Osei of the AU's civil society organ noted 'slow but substantive movement' toward global reckoning.

Representatives from Latin America, the Caribbean, the Congressional Black Caucus, and NAACP are attending. Liliane Umubyeyi of African Futures Lab said the event could broaden the coalition and accelerate the reparations agenda.

Source: www.theguardian.com