France’s Macron to address reparatory justice conference in Accra

The Government of Ghana has confirmed that French President Emmanuel Macron will address the upcoming Next Steps Conference on Reparatory Justice in Accra, a major international gathering aimed at advancing discussions on reparations and historical accountability.

The announcement was made by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, in a social media post on Tuesday.

The conference, which will be hosted by President John Dramani Mahama, is expected to bring together global leaders, policymakers, academics, and other stakeholders to examine pathways toward reparatory justice for historical injustices, particularly those arising from the transatlantic enslavement of Africans.

According to Mr. Ablakwa, President Macron is expected to participate in what has been described as a good-faith dialogue on the historical injustices suffered by Africans and people of African descent. He is also expected to outline France’s position and commitments regarding reparatory justice and historical accountability.

The conference comes at a time when international conversations on reparations have gained renewed momentum following the adoption of a Ghana-led resolution at the United Nations that recognised transatlantic enslavement as the gravest crime against humanity.

The landmark resolution has intensified global discussions about the enduring social, economic, and political consequences of slavery and colonial exploitation, as well as the responsibility of nations and institutions to address those legacies.

The Accra conference is expected to serve as a platform for exploring practical and collaborative approaches to reparatory justice, while fostering dialogue between African nations, the African diaspora, former colonial powers, and international organisations.

Observers view President Macron’s participation as significant, given France’s historical role in the transatlantic slave trade and its longstanding ties with several African countries. His presence is expected to contribute to broader discussions on reconciliation, historical responsibility, and equitable partnerships between Africa and the global community.

The event is anticipated to strengthen Ghana’s growing role as a leading voice in international advocacy for reparatory justice and historical recognition, while advancing efforts to build global consensus on addressing the lasting impact of slavery and related injustices.