Ghana Welcomes Pope Leo XIV’s Historic Apology Over Vatican’s Role in Transatlantic Slave Trade
Foreign Affairs Ministry Describes Papal Statement as “Act of Moral Courage” Amid Calls for Global Historical Justice
- Ghana welcomes Pope Leo XIV’s apology on slave trade role
- Ministry calls statement an act of moral courage and justice
- Accra to host conference on historical justice in June 2026
The Government of Ghana has welcomed the historic apology issued by Pope Leo XIV, in which he acknowledged the Holy See’s role in legitimising and sustaining the transatlantic slave trade.
In a statement released on Tuesday, May 26, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the Pope’s remarks as “an act of moral courage” and a meaningful contribution to global efforts aimed at promoting historical truth, justice, and human dignity.
The government noted that the apology comes at a significant moment, as the international community continues to confront the long-lasting impacts of slavery and colonialism.
“The statement represents an act of moral courage on the part of the Pope and an important contribution to the ongoing global pursuit of historical truth, human dignity and justice,” the release said.
Ghana further commended Pope Leo XIV for his emphasis on compassion, social justice, and solidarity with vulnerable communities worldwide.
The statement highlighted that millions of Africans and people of African descent endured centuries of racialised enslavement, with consequences that continue to shape societies today.
It stressed that honest acknowledgment of this painful history is essential for healing, reconciliation, and building a more just future.
Ghana also referenced the recent adoption of United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/80/250, which recognises the trafficking and enslavement of Africans as a grave crime against humanity.
According to the government, discussions surrounding the resolution included references to historical documents such as papal bulls linked to the transatlantic slave trade, making the Pope’s apology especially significant.
“His Holiness Pope Leo XIV’s apology is particularly significant and refreshing, as it demonstrates a willingness to confront difficult historical truths in the interest of justice, understanding and reconciliation,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its historical connection to the legacy of the slave trade, Ghana said it remains committed to advancing historical justice, remembrance, and the restoration of human dignity.
The government also announced plans to host a High-Level Consultative Conference in Accra from June 17 to 19, 2026, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, to discuss next steps following the UN resolution and deepen global dialogue on historical justice and reconciliation.
President Mahama, according to the statement, expressed appreciation to Pope Leo XIV for the apology and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to truth, healing, and shared global humanity.
