China Applauds UN Resolution on Transatlantic Slave Trade

UN Resolution Declares Transatlantic Slave Trade “Gravest Crime Against Humanity,” Heralding New Era of Justice

A landmark resolution by the United Nations General Assembly has, for the first time, officially designated the transatlantic slave trade as the “gravest crime against humanity.” This historic declaration, adopted on March 25, 2026, during the 80th session of the General Assembly, coinciding with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, has been met with widespread acclaim, particularly from African nations and their global allies.

The resolution garnered overwhelming support from UN member states, signalling a significant shift in international consensus towards acknowledging and addressing the profound and enduring legacy of this dark period in human history.

A Victory for Historical Justice and Reparations

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, lauded the resolution as a pivotal moment in the pursuit of global historical justice and reparations for Africans and people of African descent. He described it as a “historic milestone” and a “victory for justice,” emphasizing that while justice may be delayed, it is ultimately inevitable. Ambassador Yu extended his sincere congratulations to African nations and the broader developing world for their instrumental role in advocating for and securing the adoption of this crucial resolution.

The envoy highlighted that the UNGA resolution aligns perfectly with the theme of the 38th African Union Summit, which focused on “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.” This convergence underscores the sustained and dedicated efforts by African countries to champion reparatory justice on the international stage.

Ambassador Yu articulated the resolution’s profound significance, stating, “With profound historical significance, it represents a powerful affirmation of historical justice, a firm defence of the common dignity of humanity, and a major victory for the international community in opposing the remnants of colonialism, resisting racial discrimination, and upholding fairness and justice.”

China’s Commitment to Rectifying Historical Injustices

China was among the 123 countries that voted in favour of the resolution, a move that reiterates Beijing’s long-standing commitment to addressing historical injustices. Ambassador Yu affirmed China’s consistent stance: “China has always stood firmly on the right side of history, actively promoting the international community’s recognition of historical responsibilities and remedying historical injustices.”

He underscored the devastating impact of the transatlantic slave trade, acknowledging it as one of the most harrowing chapters in human history. Tens of millions of Africans were subjected to trafficking, enslavement, and death. The ambassador stressed that the systemic consequences of this brutal trade continue to impede Africa’s development and infringe upon the rights of people of African descent worldwide.

According to Ambassador Yu, the UNGA resolution serves as a critical step in:

• Restoring Historical Truth: By formally acknowledging the scale and brutality of the slave trade.
• Countering Contemporary Discrimination: Effectively addressing ongoing racial discrimination and structural injustices.
• Laying Foundations for Reparations: Establishing an important legal and moral framework for advancing historical reparations, facilitating the return of looted cultural artefacts, and promoting trauma healing.

Strengthening China-Africa and China-Nigeria Relations

The adoption of the resolution comes at a significant time for China-Africa relations, marking 70 years of diplomatic ties between China and the continent in 2026. Ambassador Yu emphasized that China’s engagement with Africa is firmly rooted in principles of mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, and robust development cooperation.

“China-Africa cooperation is based on equality, aims at development, and focuses on people’s well-being. It responds to Africa’s urgent needs and helps enhance Africa’s capacity for independent development through tangible cooperation,” he explained. As an example of this commitment, he cited the recent implementation of zero-tariff treatment for African countries with diplomatic relations with China.

Turning to bilateral relations, Ambassador Yu noted the strong historical and contemporary ties between China and Nigeria. He pointed out that both nations share a common experience of colonial oppression and are steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding sovereignty and promoting development. In recent years, the relationship between China and Nigeria has deepened significantly, culminating in an upgrade to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

“China is ready to work with Nigeria to further align our development strategies, transform cooperation outcomes into tangible benefits for our peoples, and inject strong momentum into Nigeria’s economic and social development,” Ambassador Yu stated.

A Call Against Hegemonism and Unilateralism

During his address, Ambassador Yu also took the opportunity to voice concerns over the rise of hegemonism and unilateralism in global affairs. He issued a stern warning against colonial mindsets and the “law of the jungle,” asserting that such approaches fundamentally undermine the international order and the principles of justice.

“History has long proven that power politics finds no popular support, unilateral bullying leads nowhere, and any attempt to gain benefits through oppression or seek hegemony through bullying will ultimately be discarded by the times,” he declared.

A Shared Future of Equality and Development

Reaffirming China’s unwavering commitment to Africa, Ambassador Yu concluded with a powerful message of solidarity. Beijing will continue to champion African nations in their pursuit of dignity and development.

“The adoption of this historic UNGA Resolution has added a significant chapter to the cause of global justice. China will, as always, stand side by side with Nigeria and all African countries,” he pledged.

“We will let the sunshine of equality, development and dignity illuminate the African continent, and make new and greater contributions to the prosperity and revitalisation of Africa as well as to a better future for all humanity,” Ambassador Yu concluded.