In a recent meeting, Pope Leo XIV commended the UK's decision to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, labeling it a pivotal moment for the displaced Chagossian people.
Pope Celebrates UK’s Chagos Islands Agreement as a "Significant Victory" for Refugees
Pope Celebrates UK’s Chagos Islands Agreement as a "Significant Victory" for Refugees
Pope Leo XIV praises UK's treaty to return Chagos Islands to Mauritius, heralding a meaningful step towards justice.
The Pope expressed his happiness during a meeting with a delegation of 15 Chagos refugees at the Vatican, declaring this decision as a "significant victory" in their quest to rectify historical wrongs. This agreement, ratified in May, grants Mauritius sovereignty over the islands while permitting the continued operation of US and UK military forces on Diego Garcia for an initial 99-year period.
Pope Leo articulated hope that Mauritian authorities would facilitate the return of the Chagossian refugees to their homeland. Speaking in French, he remarked, "The renewed prospect of your return to your native archipelago is an encouraging sign." He emphasized the importance of respecting the rights and identities of all individuals, insisting that no one should be forced into exile.
Historically, the UK acquired the Chagos Islands in 1968 for £3 million, with Mauritius claiming it was coerced into relinquishing control during its fight for independence from Britain. The strategic importance of the islands led to their clearance for a military base, resulting in many Chagossians relocating to Mauritius, Seychelles, or England, notably Crawley, West Sussex.
Under the new treaty, the UK is set to compensate Mauritius approximately £101 million annually for the next 99 years. It establishes a protective 24-mile perimeter around Diego Garcia where development requires UK approval. Military actions and civilian activities by foreign entities will be prohibited on other islands of the archipelago, with the UK retaining the authority to deny access.
This treaty will take effect only after passing through the legislative bodies of both countries. The UK Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of this agreement for national security, arguing that failure to reach this accord could have endangered the UK’s interests in protecting against potential adversaries like China.
In contrast, opposition leaders have criticized the arrangement as detrimental to the UK’s strategic position. The Mauritian Attorney General celebrated the agreement as the conclusion of a 60-year struggle, while some former Diego Garcia inhabitants are pursuing legal avenues to secure their right to return. Despite an unsuccessful last-minute challenge to the treaty, the deal marks a new chapter in the complex history of the Chagos Islands.
Pope Leo articulated hope that Mauritian authorities would facilitate the return of the Chagossian refugees to their homeland. Speaking in French, he remarked, "The renewed prospect of your return to your native archipelago is an encouraging sign." He emphasized the importance of respecting the rights and identities of all individuals, insisting that no one should be forced into exile.
Historically, the UK acquired the Chagos Islands in 1968 for £3 million, with Mauritius claiming it was coerced into relinquishing control during its fight for independence from Britain. The strategic importance of the islands led to their clearance for a military base, resulting in many Chagossians relocating to Mauritius, Seychelles, or England, notably Crawley, West Sussex.
Under the new treaty, the UK is set to compensate Mauritius approximately £101 million annually for the next 99 years. It establishes a protective 24-mile perimeter around Diego Garcia where development requires UK approval. Military actions and civilian activities by foreign entities will be prohibited on other islands of the archipelago, with the UK retaining the authority to deny access.
This treaty will take effect only after passing through the legislative bodies of both countries. The UK Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of this agreement for national security, arguing that failure to reach this accord could have endangered the UK’s interests in protecting against potential adversaries like China.
In contrast, opposition leaders have criticized the arrangement as detrimental to the UK’s strategic position. The Mauritian Attorney General celebrated the agreement as the conclusion of a 60-year struggle, while some former Diego Garcia inhabitants are pursuing legal avenues to secure their right to return. Despite an unsuccessful last-minute challenge to the treaty, the deal marks a new chapter in the complex history of the Chagos Islands.
