The government has welcomed a statement by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV acknowledging and apologising for the role played by the Holy See in legitimising and sustaining the transatlantic slave trade.
In a ststement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration on May 26, Ghana described the Pope’s statement as “an act of moral courage” and “an important contribution to the ongoing global pursuit of historical truth, human dignity and justice.”
The Ministry noted Pope Leo XIV’s longstanding commitment to service, compassion, and the dignity of the human person, adding that he has advanced principles of social justice, solidarity with the vulnerable, and moral responsibility.
The statement highlighted the impact of five centuries of racialised chattel enslavement, saying millions of Africans and people of African descent endured “unimaginable suffering and dehumanisation” with effects that continue to shape societies today.
“Honest recognition of this painful history remains an essential step toward healing, reconciliation, and a more just future,” the Ministry said.
Ghana said the acknowledgement is particularly significant as the international community reflects on the historical consequences of slavery and colonialism. It reinforces the understanding that “confronting historical injustices demands truth-telling and moral responsibility as essential foundations for justice and reconciliation.”
The Ministry also cited the recent adoption of UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/80/250, which declared the trafficking of enslaved Africans and the racialized chattel enslavement of Africans as “the gravest crime against humanity.”
The Resolution affirmed the need to preserve historical memory and sustain international dialogue on justice, dignity, and equality for Africans and people of African descent.
According to the statement, questions relating to historical references concerning the role of the Church, including references to Papal Bulls, generated extensive discussions during negotiations on the resolution.
Against that background, the Ministry said, Pope Leo XIV’s apology is “particularly significant and refreshing” as it demonstrates a willingness to confront difficult historical truths.
The Ministry reiterated Ghana’s commitment to working with international partners, faith communities, and civil society to advance historical justice, remembrance, and the restoration of human dignity.
It announced that Ghana will host the High-Level Consultative Conference in Accra from June 17 to 19, 2026, convened by President John Dramani Mahama.
The conference will focus on next steps following the adoption of the UN Resolution.
President Mahama expressed his appreciation to Pope Leo XIV for the step, the statement said, and looks forward to continuing global engagement in promoting truth, healing and a shared commitment to humanity.
The Ministry added that it hopes States which did not support the Resolution will align with its objectives and join Ghana and the broader international community in advancing its implementation.
