Ghana welcomes Pope Leo XIV's apology over Holy See's role in slave trade

Pope Leo XIV issued an apology acknowledging the role played by the Holy See in legitimising and sustaining the transatlantic slave trade. The Government of Ghana welcomed this apology. 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 in a press release issued on Tuesday, May 26.

The government stated that the apology comes at a crucial moment when the international community continues to reflect on the lasting effects of slavery and colonialism. The government praised Pope Leo XIV for his commitment to compassion, social justice and solidarity with vulnerable communities across the world. Ghana 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. Discussions surrounding the Resolution included debates about historical references to the Church, Papal Bulls and the transatlantic slave trade. President John Dramani Mahama 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.

Ghana 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.