Commonwealth's Reckoning: Addressing Slavery's Legacy and Climate Commitments

At the Commonwealth summit, King Charles urged acknowledging the painful history of slavery as African and Caribbean nations push for reparations. Despite opposition, discussions on reparations and climate change are pivotal themes. The summit is also expected to adopt the Commonwealth Ocean Declaration to address rising sea levels.

King Charles, during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, called for acknowledging the painful history of transatlantic slavery amid increasing demands for reparations from African and Caribbean nations. The meeting in Samoa highlighted the need for understanding history to make informed future decisions.

The discussion on reparations gained momentum, despite UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer rejecting financial reparations. However, he expressed openness to non-financial reparations, including restructuring financial systems and debt relief. The dialogue continues as CARICOM and the African Union back the reparations movement.

Additionally, summit discussions focused on the Commonwealth Ocean Declaration, seeking to ensure healthy oceans and secure maritime boundaries, even if some islands become unlivable due to climate change. The declaration aims to provide hope and reassurance for vulnerable island nations facing rising sea levels.

(With inputs from agencies.)