At the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo made a powerful appeal for reparations to be paid by the United States and Europe for the transatlantic slave trade. Addressing world leaders, he emphasized the necessity of acknowledging the historical injustices that have significantly shaped the economic landscapes of the West and the enduring impact on African nations.
“It is time to acknowledge openly that much of the wealth and prosperity that we enjoy today in the West was built on the backs of the victims of the transatlantic slave trade,” President Akufo-Addo stated. He argued that centuries of exploitation and human suffering have left deep scars that continue to affect the social and economic development of African countries.
The transatlantic slave trade, which lasted from the 16th to the 19th century, forcibly removed millions of Africans from their homeland, transporting them across the Atlantic Ocean to work in harsh conditions in the Americas and the Caribbean. This systemic exploitation generated immense wealth for colonial powers, fueling the industrialization and economic expansion of nations in Europe and North America.
President Akufo-Addo’s call for reparations is rooted in the belief that acknowledging past wrongs is essential for genuine reconciliation and global equity. He urged international partners to engage in meaningful dialogue and take concrete steps toward addressing the historical injustices that have long-term consequences on the African continent.
The issue of reparations has been a topic of increasing discussion among African leaders and diaspora communities. Advocates argue that financial compensation and restorative justice are necessary to redress the economic disparities created by slavery and colonialism. Critics, however, contend that reparations are complex to implement and raise questions about accountability across generations.
In his speech, President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the broader need for international cooperation in tackling current global challenges. He stressed that confronting the legacy of slavery is not just about the past but about building a fairer world where all nations can thrive equally.
The Ghanaian leader’s address has resonated with many who view reparations as a step toward healing and empowering African societies. As discussions continue on the global stage, President Akufo-Addo’s remarks have rejuvenated conversations about how nations can collaboratively address historical injustices and pave the way for a more equitable future.
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Ghana president: U.S., Europe must pay reparations for slave trade
cgtn.com
