At the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, King Charles III took a significant step by acknowledging the colonial injustices inflicted by Britain during its imperial past. While acknowledging the pain caused by these historical events, he emphasized that “the past cannot be changed.” The King’s comments come amid growing calls for accountability and reparations for Britain’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
Speaking to leaders in Apia, Charles recognized the “most painful aspects” of Britain’s colonial history, stating that he understood their continued impact. However, he refrained from discussing financial reparations, a topic that has been at the forefront of discussions among some Commonwealth leaders. Instead, he advocated for finding “the right language” and a deeper understanding of history to guide future actions in addressing inequality.
Charles’s remarks reflect the growing awareness and sensitivity surrounding the issue of colonial legacies within the Commonwealth. His call for “learning its lessons” and finding “creative ways to right the inequalities that endure” signals a willingness to engage with the historical wrongs but without concrete commitments to financial compensation.
Echoing this sentiment, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also acknowledged the “hard” shared history between Britain and its former colonies. While expressing understanding for calls for reparations, Starmer stressed the importance of moving forward and working together to ensure a future free from the shadow of the past. He promised to host a U.K.-Caribbean forum next year to engage with leaders of nations most impacted by the legacy of slavery.
This forum could serve as a platform for further dialogue on the issue of reparations, although the U.K. has yet to formally apologize for its role in the transatlantic slave trade. The trade, which forcibly transported millions of Africans to Caribbean and American plantations, generated immense wealth for Britain. Some estimates suggest that the U.K.’s potential reparations liability could range from hundreds of millions to trillions of dollars.
The King’s and Prime Minister’s statements at the Commonwealth summit mark a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about colonial legacies and the need for accountability. While no concrete steps towards reparations have been taken, the acknowledgment of the past and the commitment to addressing its enduring consequences offer a glimmer of hope for a more just and equitable future for all members of the Commonwealth.