Chagos Archipelago

March 13, 2025

The Chagos Archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean, has been a focal point of territorial disputes between Mauritius and the United Kingdom. The islands were under British control for decades after Mauritius gained independence in 1968. Recent developments have seen the UK formally acknowledge Mauritius’ claims over the archipelago, but tensions remain, particularly regarding Diego Garcia, which hosts military base.

Historical Background

The Chagos Archipelago comprises over 60 islands, with Diego Garcia being the largest. Initially uninhabited, Chagos saw its first permanent settlements in the 18th century. The French claimed the islands in the 1700s, and later, British control was established after the Napoleonic Wars. The islands were used for plantations, relying on slave and indentured labour.

British Indian Ocean Territory

In 1965, the UK created the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), which included Chagos. This move was part of a broader strategy to maintain military presence in the Indian Ocean during the Cold War. The UK paid Mauritius £3 million for the detachment of Chagos.

Military Significance of Diego Garcia

The US established a military base on Diego Garcia in the 1970s. The construction led to the forced expulsion of the Chagossian population, who were relocated to Mauritius and Seychelles. The base became operational in 1986 and has since played important role in US military operations in the region.

International Rulings

Mauritius has long claimed sovereignty over Chagos. In 2017, the UN General Assembly requested the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to assess the legal status of the islands. The ICJ ruled in 2019 that the UK must end its administration over Chagos. The UN subsequently called for the UK to withdraw from the area.

Recent Developments

In 2024, the UK and Mauritius reached a historic agreement recognising Mauritius’ sovereignty over Chagos, while allowing the UK to maintain control over Diego Garcia for 99 years. This deal has faced criticism from various stakeholders, including the Chagossians, who feel excluded from the negotiations regarding their future and potential resettlement.

Current Issues and Future Prospects

The agreement has raised concerns about the influence of China in the Indian Ocean, as Mauritius strengthens ties with the country. Critics argue that the deal may compromise the strategic balance in the region. The future of the Chagossians remains uncertain as discussions about resettlement and compensation continue.

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