Pope Leo XIV met with a delegation of Chagossian refugees in the Vatican, expressing happiness over a recent agreement between the UK and Mauritius regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands. The Pope hailed the deal as a "historic victory", emphasizing the need to rectify a long-standing injustice. The treaty, signed this past May, permits Mauritius to reclaim sovereignty of the islands, while allowing continued military operations on Diego Garcia, a key US-UK base, for another 99 years.
During his speech delivered in French, the Pope underscored the significance of this agreement as a ray of hope for the Chagossians, who were forcibly relocated from their homeland for the establishment of a military base. He stated, "The renewed prospect of your return to your native archipelago is an encouraging sign," advocating for the respect of each person's identity and rights.
Historically, the UK acquired the Chagos Islands for £3 million in 1968, which Mauritius later asserts was a coerced concession for independence. In the wake of that acquisition, local populations faced displacement, many relocating to Mauritius, Seychelles, or settling in the UK. Reflecting on the deal's implications, the UK government announced that it would compensate Mauritius approximately £101 million annually over the course of the treaty.
Dissension exists about the transfer, with UK opposition leaders and some Chagossians criticizing the arrangement. Concerns have been raised regarding national security, with the UK government's proposal perceived as a safeguard against potential Chinese advances in the region. UK officials argue that failing to secure this treaty would risk allowing foreign powers, including China, the opportunity to establish bases near critical military installations.
Mauritian leaders have welcomed the accord, celebrating the end of a protracted fight for sovereignty. Conversely, legal challenges by two women, Chagossians born on Diego Garcia longing for the right to return, were dismissed by the High Court shortly after the treaty was announced, highlighting the ongoing complexities surrounding this geopolitical issue.
