On 22 May 2025, the United Kingdom and Mauritius signed a landmark agreement regarding the Chagos Archipelago. This agreement represents a significant shift in colonial legacies and carries profound implications for international law and strategic military interests in the Indian Ocean.
Historical Context: The Chagos Archipelago Dispute
The Chagos Archipelago, a group of over 60 islands in the Indian Ocean, was separated from Mauritius by the UK in 1965, three years before Mauritius gained independence. This separation enabled the construction of a US-UK military base on Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago. Between 1968 and 1973, around 2,000 Chagossians were forcibly evicted to make way for the base, sparking decades of legal and political disputes over sovereignty and the right of the displaced population to return.
The 2019 ICJ Advisory Opinion: A Legal Milestone
In February 2019, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued an advisory opinion stating that the UK’s continued administration of the Chagos Archipelago was unlawful. The Court concluded that the decolonization of Mauritius was not lawfully completed, as the detachment of the Chagos Archipelago was not based on the free and genuine expression of the will of the people concerned. The ICJ asserted that the UK is under an obligation to end its administration of the Chagos Archipelago as rapidly as possible, and that all UN Member States must cooperate to complete the decolonization of Mauritius.
The 2025 Agreement: Terms and Reactions
The agreement signed in May 2025 involves the UK ceding sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius, while retaining control over the Diego Garcia military base through a 99-year lease. As part of the deal, the UK will pay Mauritius £3 billion (approximately $4 billion). This arrangement aims to resolve longstanding disputes and aligns with international legal opinions, including the 2019 ICJ advisory opinion.
The 2025 Agreement: Terms and Reactions
However, the agreement has faced criticism. Some Chagossians, who were not consulted during the negotiations, have expressed opposition, citing concerns over their right to return and the lack of involvement in decisions affecting their homeland. Legal challenges were mounted, including an injunction by two British-born Chagossians, Bernadette Dugasse and Bertrice Pompe, which temporarily halted the signing of the deal. The injunction was later overturned, allowing the agreement to proceed.
Geopolitical and Strategic Implications
Diego Garcia remains a critical strategic asset for both the UK and the U.S., serving as a key military base for operations in the Middle East and Asia. The 99-year lease ensures continued military presence and operational capabilities in the region. The agreement also reflects broader geopolitical dynamics, including concerns over China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean. U.S. officials have expressed support for the deal, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strategic stability in the region.