Ghana’s UN resolution on slave trade will pass — Barker-Vormawor

Ghanaian social activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor has expressed confidence that the country's resolution at the United Nations seeking to declare the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity will be adopted.

The resolution, expected to be voted today, Wednesday, March 25, coincides with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

It calls for global recognition of the historical injustice of slavery and aims to lay the foundation for reparatory justice for Africa and the African diaspora.

In a social media post ahead of the vote, Barker Vormawor said he remains optimistic about the outcome despite potential abstentions.

“I am hopeful that the resolution will pass… perhaps somewhere around 120 yes votes, 40 abstentions, 10 against,” he stated.

He explained that strong backing from African countries and expected support from Caribbean nations could significantly boost the chances of the resolution’s passage.

Barker Vormawor also noted that while some Western countries may abstain, the broader global momentum favours adoption.

“The resolution will pass. Of that I am confident,” the activist added.

He, however, stressed that beyond the numbers, the significance of the vote lies in whether it reflects a genuine global commitment to confronting the legacy of slavery.