Ghana to host global leaders for reparatory justice conference

Government of Ghana has announced plans to host a High-Level “Next Steps” Conference on Reparatory Justice from June 17 to 19, 2026, in Accra, following the adoption of a landmark United Nations resolution on trans-Atlantic enslavement.

In a statement on Monday, May 4, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that the conference is being convened under the auspices of President John Dramani Mahama, in his capacity as African Union Champion for Reparations.

The Ministry described the UN decision—endorsed by 123 member states—as “a significant milestone in advancing global acknowledgment of historical injustices and the need for structured engagement on reparatory justice.”

The conference will assemble heads of state, foreign ministers, academics, historians, and activists to deliberate on the next phase of the reparations agenda.

It aims at “translating the historic Resolution A/RES/80/250 into a common actionable global framework,” the statement said.

An outcome document is expected to outline coordinated policy approaches, institutional frameworks, and mechanisms to sustain international engagement on reparatory justice.

As part of the event, Ghana will host a special Juneteenth commemoration at the Christiansborg Castle in Osu.

The Ministry noted the site’s historical significance, describing it as “a place of profound historical relevance to the Trans-Atlantic Enslavement.”

The event is expected to serve as “a memorable climax of the Conference,” while promoting “remembrance, recognition, healing and a quest for justice.”

The government says the conference will also strengthen Africa’s collective voice and deepen engagement with the African diaspora and global partners.

“Outcomes of the Conference are expected to include a set of recommendations and forward-looking actions to guide subsequent engagements at the continental and international levels,” the statement added.