African Union Declares Slavery and Colonialism Crimes Against Africans

African Union Declares Slavery and Colonialism Crimes Against Africans

African Union (AU) leaders have officially declared slavery, colonialism, and deportation crimes against Africans, adopting a historic resolution to recognise the atrocities committed against the continent and its people. The resolution was adopted during the AU summit of heads of state and government in Addis Ababa.

According to the resolution, member states agreed to designate November 30 each year as the “African Day of Tribute to African Martyrs and Victims of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, Colonialism, and Apartheid.” The move is aimed at preserving the memory of millions of Africans who suffered under centuries of exploitation, violence, and oppression.

The AU stated that slavery and colonialism should be recognised internationally as crimes against humanity and genocide against African peoples, calling on member states to work collectively toward global recognition and accountability. The organisation also pledged to continue pushing for justice, reparations, and historical acknowledgment of the lasting social, economic, and cultural damage caused by these practices.

AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf described the decision as a significant step toward addressing historical injustices and restoring the dignity of Africans and people of African descent. He urged African countries to maintain solidarity and pursue unified action to ensure that the crimes of slavery and colonialism are not forgotten or ignored.

The declaration builds on earlier continental initiatives, including the “Algiers Declaration” on the crimes of colonialism in Africa, which sought to establish a unified African legal and moral position on historical injustices and reparatory justice.

Observers say the resolution reflects growing global discussions around reparations and accountability for colonial-era crimes, as African leaders seek justice and recognition for the continent’s historical suffering and its long-term impacts on development.

The AU said November 30 will serve as a day of remembrance, education, and reflection, aimed at strengthening historical awareness among younger generations and reinforcing the fight against racism, exploitation, and inequality.