African-led UN resolutions renew debate on history and global influence

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  The African Group secured UN support for two resolutions that have renewed debate about slavery, reparations and Africa’s place in the international order.

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  In March, the transatlantic slave trade was recognized as “the gravest crime against humanity.”

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  On September 4, the UN adopted the “Correct the Map” resolution, which calls for replacing maps based on the Mercator projection.

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  Both initiatives received broad approval but are non-binding.

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  Researcher Paul-Simon Handy said African diplomacy must turn these symbolic gains into political and economic influence.

Who

The African Group at the United Nations, with the African Union, Ghana and Togo leading the initiatives.

What

The UN backed resolutions recognizing the transatlantic slave trade and calling for maps that do not distort Africa’s size.

When

One resolution was recognized in March; the “Correct the Map” resolution was adopted on September 4. The year is not stated.

Where

At the United Nations.

Why

The initiatives seek to address how the past is understood and Africa’s position in the global order, including debate about reparations.

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