A major conference on slavery and reparatory justice held in Accra, Ghana, has renewed global discussions over historical responsibility, compensation, and the lasting effects of the transatlantic slave trade.
The three-day meeting brought together African leaders, policymakers, academics, legal experts, civil society organisations, and representatives of the African diaspora to discuss ways of addressing the consequences of slavery.
The event was held at Christiansborg Castle, also known as Osu Castle, a former slave-trading site where millions of Africans were detained before being transported across the Atlantic. Performers recreated scenes from the slave trade to remember the suffering endured by enslaved Africans.
The conference followed a landmark United Nations resolution recognising the trafficking of enslaved Africans and racialised chattel slavery as among the gravest crimes against humanity.
The meeting produced a 19-point framework calling for official apologies from countries and institutions linked to slavery, reparations programmes, the return of stolen cultural artefacts and human remains, debt relief, education initiatives, and stronger international cooperation.
Experts said the legacy of slavery continues to affect modern societies through economic inequality, racism, and unequal access to global opportunities.
Countries frequently mentioned in reparations discussions include Portugal, Britain, France, Spain, and the Netherlands, which played major roles in the transatlantic slave trade.
While some European nations have acknowledged their historical involvement, responses to financial compensation have remained mixed. The Netherlands issued a formal apology in 2022, France recognised slavery as a crime against humanity in 2001, while Britain has expressed regret but has not agreed to reparations.
Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama said the conference aimed to move beyond symbolic discussions and focus on practical steps. He announced the creation of international bodies dealing with reparatory justice, cultural restitution, and legal matters.
Supporters of reparations argue that the impact of slavery and colonialism remains visible today in wealth gaps, development challenges, and social inequalities affecting Africa and the African diaspora.
However, challenges remain over how reparations should be implemented, with proposals including financial payments, debt relief, cultural returns, education funding, and institutional reforms.
Participants said the Accra meeting was not the end of the discussion but part of a longer global campaign for recognition, accountability, and justice.
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