African Union adopts Algiers Declaration, demands UN Security Council reform and reparations for colonial crimes

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — The high-level summit, held at the AU headquarters in Ethiopia's capital, centered on continental sovereignty, reparatory justice, and reform of global governance systems that have long been criticized for sidelining African voices.

AU Adopts Algiers Declaration on Colonial Crimes

Image: African Union

A key outcome of the summit was the formal adoption of the Algiers Declaration, initially endorsed during the International Conference on Colonial Crimes in Africa held in Algiers. By adopting the declaration, the AU Assembly granted it full continental backing.

The declaration explicitly recognizes the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, apartheid, and related systems of oppression as crimes against humanity, a move African leaders say is critical to advancing historical accountability and global recognition.

The resolution further designates November 30 as an African Day of Remembrance to honor martyrs and victims of slavery, colonialism, and apartheid. The initiative was proposed by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and formally endorsed by the Assembly.

Renewed Push for UN Security Council Reform

Image: Carnegie Endownment for International Peace

Beyond historical justice, African leaders reiterated longstanding demands for reform of the United Nations Security Council, arguing that Africa, home to 54 countries, remains underrepresented in the world's most powerful decision-making body on global peace and security.

The Assembly called for equitable representation and permanent African seats, framing the issue as central to correcting structural imbalances within international institutions.

AU Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf described the recognition of colonization as a crime against humanity as a historic milestone.

"The conference acknowledges that colonization is a crime against humanity. That is very important," Youssouf stated.

He also expressed solidarity with Palestine, calling for an end to what he characterized as the extermination of the Palestinian people, a position reflecting broader AU support for Palestinian self-determination.

Africa's Collective Voice on Global Accountability

Image: African Union

Leaders concluded that adopting the Algiers Declaration strengthens Africa's unified stance on historical accountability, reparations, and institutional reform. The move signals a coordinated diplomatic effort to secure global recognition of colonial-era crimes while demanding systemic changes within international governance structures.

As debates around reparations and UN reform gain momentum worldwide, the AU summit in Addis Ababa marks a significant moment in Africa's ongoing campaign for justice, representation, and sovereignty on the global stage.