Kemi Badenoch has criticised the United Kingdom’s decision to abstain from a United Nations resolution recognising slavery and the transatlantic slave trade as among the greatest injustices in human history.
The resolution, which was adopted at the United Nations, received 123 votes in favour and three against—by the United States, Israel, and Argentina—while the UK joined 51 other countries in abstaining.
John Mahama, who backed the resolution, said the move was necessary given the lasting impact of slavery, including ongoing racial inequalities. Historical records estimate that between 10 and 15 million Africans were forcibly taken across the Atlantic between 1500 and 1900, with British ships transporting at least three million people. Countries such as Senegal, Benin, Ghana, and Nigeria were among the most affected.
The resolution also calls on member states to consider issuing formal apologies and contributing to a proposed reparations fund.
Reacting on X (formerly Twitter), Badenoch criticised the UK government’s stance, arguing that it should have opposed the motion rather than abstaining.
“Russia, China and Iran vote with others to demand trillions in reparations from UK taxpayers…and the Labour government abstain!” she wrote.
She questioned the decision, adding, “Britain led the fight to end slavery. Why didn’t Starmer’s representative vote against this? Ignorance…or cowardice? We shouldn’t be paying for a crime we helped eradicate and still fight today.”
Badenoch’s comments add to ongoing debates around slavery, colonial history, and reparations. She has previously rejected claims that Britain’s wealth was significantly built on slavery and has described calls for reparations as unjustified.
