U.S. is one of three countries to vote against U.N. resolution calling slavery a 'crime against humanity'

Key Points:

• The U.N. General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring the trafficking of enslaved Africans "the gravest crime against humanity" and called for reparations as a step toward remedying historical wrongs, with a vote of 123-3 and 52 abstentions.
• The resolution urges the prompt and unhindered restitution of cultural items to their countries of origin and calls for reparatory justice measures, including formal apologies, compensation, and changes to laws addressing racism and systemic discrimination.
• The United States, Argentina, and Israel voted against the resolution, citing concerns over the legal basis for reparations and objections to ranking crimes against humanity, while the UK and EU members abstained due to concerns about the resolution’s language and legal interpretations.
• Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, a key architect of the resolution, emphasized the importance of affirming truth and pursuing healing for the millions who suffered from slavery, coinciding with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery.
• While not legally binding, the resolution reflects global opinion and encourages collaboration among the African Union, Caribbean Community, and Organization of American States with U.N. bodies to promote education and reconciliation related to the transatlantic slave trade.