Philenews

Cyprus' Abstention on Transatlantic Slave Trade Resolution Raises Concerns

Published March 27, 2026, 14:20
Cyprus' Abstention on Transatlantic Slave Trade Resolution Raises Concerns

Cyprus, along with Greece and other EU countries, abstained from voting on a UN General Assembly resolution recognizing the transatlantic slave trade as a war crime and calling for reparations. This decision has been criticized as supporting former colonial powers, such as England, France, and Portugal, who are responsible for the slave trade and colonialism. Cyprus' and Greece's abstention has raised questions about their acceptance of condemning slavery as a war crime and protecting the interests of former colonizers. The resolution was adopted with 123 votes in favor, while the US, Israel, and Argentina voted against. Criticism focuses on the lack of clear justification for the two countries' stance and the downplaying of the importance of recognizing the slave trade as one of the most serious crimes against humanity.