Ghana has called on the United States to reconsider its stance on reparatory justice following a United Nations (UN) resolution recognizing the enslavement of West Africans as one of history’s gravest crimes.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Ablakwa, speaking via video call on BBC Focus on Africa, expressed disappointment at the US decision to reject the motion, which was overwhelmingly supported by 123 countries.

“Particularly, for the United States, it was most disappointing, because they know their role in this. They took part in the horrendous atrocities that happened. We will leave it to their conscience,” he said.

Minister Ablakwa described the vote as a missed opportunity for the US to demonstrate regret, contrition, and willingness to engage with the global community on reparatory justice, while noting that it is not too late for the country to reconsider its position.

“Ghana’s message to the Trump administration is that you missed a golden opportunity, but it is not too late. This resolution has been passed. You have another opportunity to come on board to work with this broad international coalition to put in place the systems that we are now formulating to totally dismantle the pillars of discrimination and racism,” he added.

While 123 nations supported the resolution, 52 abstained - including Ghana’s former colonial power, the United Kingdom - while Argentina, Israel, and the United States opposed it.

Ghana continues to lead international advocacy for reparatory justice, stressing accountability, reconciliation, and systemic reforms to address the enduring impact of slavery.