The government was gearing up for a virtual signing ceremony regarding the transfer of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, but a sudden court injunction by Mr. Justice Goose has put a halt to those plans. This interim relief was granted to two Chagossian women, Bernadette Dugasse and Bertrice Pompe, in a case against the Foreign Office. The judge ruled that the UK cannot finalize any negotiations related to the transfer of the islands until further notice.
This agreement was initially set to allow the UK and the US to retain their military base on Diego Garcia for 99 years while giving sovereignty to Mauritius. The details of financial compensation to Mauritius are not disclosed yet but may climb into the billions.
The Chagossians, who were forcibly removed from their homeland in the late 1960s, are divided over the issue. Some wish to return, while others seek recognition and rights in the UK. The community is voicing their concerns about being excluded from negotiations, with many calling for self-determination regarding their homeland.
The upcoming court hearing will further delve into these crucial matters, as growing international pressure mounts on the UK to resolve the sovereignty issues surrounding the islands. The discussions involve the Foreign Office and representatives from the Chagossian community to address their voices in this important legal and historical conversation.
This agreement was initially set to allow the UK and the US to retain their military base on Diego Garcia for 99 years while giving sovereignty to Mauritius. The details of financial compensation to Mauritius are not disclosed yet but may climb into the billions.
The Chagossians, who were forcibly removed from their homeland in the late 1960s, are divided over the issue. Some wish to return, while others seek recognition and rights in the UK. The community is voicing their concerns about being excluded from negotiations, with many calling for self-determination regarding their homeland.
The upcoming court hearing will further delve into these crucial matters, as growing international pressure mounts on the UK to resolve the sovereignty issues surrounding the islands. The discussions involve the Foreign Office and representatives from the Chagossian community to address their voices in this important legal and historical conversation.
