Chagos Islanders Establish Permanent Settlement on Île du Coin
Four Chagos Islanders have made history by landing on Île du Coin, one of the atolls in the Chagos archipelago. Their objective is to create what they declare will be a permanent settlement. This move aims to complicate ongoing discussions regarding the British plan to transfer the territory to Mauritius.
Political Implications and Reactions
The attorney general of Mauritius, Gavin Glover, has termed the group’s actions a mere publicity stunt. He claims it’s an attempt to instigate conflict over a 2025 agreement regarding the sovereignty of the British Indian Ocean Territory. This agreement faces opposition from some Chagossians, who accuse Mauritius of neglecting their interests for years. Mauritius has categorically denied these allegations.
Understanding the 2025 Agreement
According to the 2025 deal, the United Kingdom will transfer control of the islands back to Mauritius while retaining a 99-year lease on the largest atoll, Diego Garcia. This lease allows the continuation of a joint US-UK military base critical for national security interests.
Personal Stories from Chagossians
Misley Mandarin, the leader of the group that landed on Monday, is currently living in tents alongside his companions. He is hopeful about the arrival of 10 more people in the coming week and anticipates increasing numbers throughout the year. Mandarin, who has personal ties to the island, expressed a deep longing to help the 322 individuals he believes were born on Île du Coin and are still alive, urging for their return home.
Continued Displacement and Rights Violations
A tragic chapter in this narrative began when up to 2,000 Chagossians were forcibly removed from their homeland during the 1960s and 1970s. Many were resettled in Mauritius and the UK, with most still yearning for the right to return. The UN committee on the elimination of racial discrimination has cautioned both Britain and Mauritius against ratifying the 2025 agreement, asserting that it could further entrench historical rights violations.
International Perspectives and U.S. Involvement
This complex situation has attracted international attention. Earlier this month, former President Donald Trump softened his stance on the UK’s plans for the Chagos Islands, claiming it was the best deal that could be reached. He emphasized the strategic importance of Diego Garcia to U.S. national security, though he also retained the right to reinforce military presence should future threats arise.
Future Considerations for Chagossians
In light of these developments, the UK government acknowledges the significance of the Chagos Islands to the Chagossian community. They are working with Mauritius to create heritage visit programs to the archipelago, although they stress that illegal activities are not an effective way to achieve these aims. The settlement’s impact on Diego Garcia’s military base remains a point of concern, but officials have asserted that the recent ventures do not pose security risks.
