The Chagos Islands have taken center stage in international discussions following an announcement that the UK has agreed to transfer control of the islands to Mauritius. Pope Leo XIV expressed his joy over this development, calling it a "significant victory" for the Chagos refugee community, who have long sought the right to return home. At a meeting with a group of 15 refugees in Vatican City, the Pope emphasized the importance of basic human rights, including the right to live on one's homeland.
The treaty, signed in May, allows Mauritius to regain sovereignty over the Chagos Islands while permitting the UK and the US to retain military operations at the strategic base on Diego Garcia for the next 99 years. The Pope urged Mauritian authorities to facilitate the refugees' return, a sentiment echoed by many in the UK and Mauritius, although some critics argue that the agreement undermines the refugees' rights.
The Chagos Islands were originally separated from Mauritius in 1965 when the UK purchased them for £3 million and subsequently cleared the islands for military use, leading to mass displacement of the Chagossian population. The current deal ensures that the UK will pay Mauritius an annual fee while retaining control over critical military operations. The agreement is still pending approval from both countries' parliaments, as debates on the potential security implications continue.
The treaty, signed in May, allows Mauritius to regain sovereignty over the Chagos Islands while permitting the UK and the US to retain military operations at the strategic base on Diego Garcia for the next 99 years. The Pope urged Mauritian authorities to facilitate the refugees' return, a sentiment echoed by many in the UK and Mauritius, although some critics argue that the agreement undermines the refugees' rights.
The Chagos Islands were originally separated from Mauritius in 1965 when the UK purchased them for £3 million and subsequently cleared the islands for military use, leading to mass displacement of the Chagossian population. The current deal ensures that the UK will pay Mauritius an annual fee while retaining control over critical military operations. The agreement is still pending approval from both countries' parliaments, as debates on the potential security implications continue.
