The Government of Ghana has welcomed the historic apology issued by Pope Leo XIV acknowledging the role played by the Holy See in legitimising and sustaining the transatlantic slave trade.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, May 26, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the Pope’s statement as “an act of moral courage” and a significant contribution to the global pursuit of historical truth, justice and human dignity.
According to the government, the apology comes at a crucial moment when the international community continues to reflect on the lasting effects 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 statement noted.
Government further praised Pope Leo XIV for his commitment to compassion, social justice and solidarity with vulnerable communities across the world.
The statement highlighted that for centuries, millions of Africans and people of African descent suffered through systems of racialised chattel enslavement, the impact of which continues to affect societies globally.
“Honest recognition of this painful history remains an essential step toward healing, reconciliation and a more just future,” the release added.
Ghana also referenced the recent adoption of the United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/80/250, which declared the trafficking and enslavement of Africans as the gravest crime against humanity.
According to the government, discussions surrounding the Resolution included debates about historical references to the Church, Papal Bulls and the transatlantic slave trade, making the Pope’s apology especially significant.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 said.
As a country closely linked to the history of the slave trade, Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to promoting 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. The conference will focus on the next steps following the adoption of the UN Resolution and sustaining global engagement on historical justice and reconciliation.
President Mahama, according to the statement, expressed appreciation to Pope Leo XIV “for this significant step” and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to promoting truth, healing and a shared commitment to humanity.
