Ghana Welcomes France's Reparatory Justice Commitment
Ghana hails France's shift on transatlantic slavery reparations, establishing a joint commission for historical research and reconciliation.
Grace Adjei | StatsGH |
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This policy shift is a major step toward addressing the lasting impact of transatlantic enslavement on Africans. President John Mahama praised President Macron’s “honest, open, conciliatory and exemplary leadership.” France’s decision to work with Ghana on reparatory justice follows an event marking the 25th anniversary of France’s law declaring slavery a crime against humanity.
This recent development aligns with Ghana’s broader efforts to advocate for historical accountability and justice. President Mahama leads the African Union as its Champion on Reparatory Justice. The Ghanaian government previously called for international dialogue and concrete actions on this issue. This includes proposals for scholarly partnerships and mechanisms for redress.
Ghana also welcomed France’s intention to repeal colonial-era slavery statutes, known as the Code Noir. This repeal acknowledges that such laws are not compatible with modern human rights principles. The Ministry indicated that France’s recognition of the need for honest engagement with history is crucial for meaningful action.
Ghana and France expect to establish a Ghana-France Scientific Commission in Ghana. This commission will deepen historical research, foster institutional cooperation, and promote reconciliation initiatives. President Macron has also accepted an invitation to attend the “Next Steps” High-Level Conference on Reparatory Justice.
The conference will take place in Accra from June 17 to June 19, 2026. Heads of State, ministers, scholars, and civil society representatives from Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Americas will attend. The summit aims to move global discussions beyond recognition to concrete actions.
Ghana’s proactive engagement on this issue has been consistent. A landmark United Nations General Assembly resolution on March 25, 2026, recognised the transatlantic enslavement of Africans as a grave crime against humanity. 123 member states adopted this resolution, which calls for constructive international engagement on reparatory justice. This resolution opens a new chapter in conversations about historical accountability.
Ghana reaffirms its readiness to engage bilaterally and multilaterally with countries and institutions willing to pursue meaningful dialogue. Achieving lasting justice requires sustained commitment, honest dialogue, and cooperation among nations. This international cooperation is essential for addressing shared histories connected to slavery and colonialism.
The establishment of the Ghana-France Scientific Commission could lead to joint research projects that unveil new historical insights. This would support claims for reparations and reconciliation. The upcoming conference in Accra will serve as a critical platform for shaping future policy frameworks. It will also define mechanisms for redress, potentially impacting international financial and development aid. These discussions could lead to significant financial commitments and policy changes from former colonial powers.