King Charles emphasized the importance of understanding and learning from history while addressing the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, his first as the head of the 56-member group. While he acknowledged that “none of us can change the past,” he encouraged leaders to commit to addressing enduring inequalities in “creative ways.” Though he did not specifically mention slavery, he acknowledged the ongoing impact of the “most painful aspects” of history, calling for a respectful dialogue within the Commonwealth.
Sir Keir Starmer attended the opening ceremony of the summit in Samoa.
The King’s remarks follow rising calls for the UK to engage in a “meaningful conversation” on reparations for the transatlantic slave trade, a movement largely driven by Caribbean leaders. Historically, the UK played a significant role in the slave trade, transporting millions of enslaved Africans to the Caribbean and North America, though it was also instrumental in abolishing the practice in 1833. Despite these discussions, UK officials, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves, have reiterated that the UK government is not planning reparations payments.
A draft of the summit’s final communiqué indicates that Commonwealth leaders will acknowledge the call for reparations discussions, despite UK efforts to avoid an independent declaration on the issue. Starmer described the transatlantic slave trade as “abhorrent” and recognized the strength of feeling among Commonwealth nations, while highlighting his hope that the summit would focus on “today’s challenges,” particularly climate resilience and trade within the Commonwealth.
Locals in Samoa have shared mixed views, with some believing the past should remain in the past, while others appreciate the global attention on their country and the summit’s focus on climate change. Small island nations, which make up much of the Commonwealth, face particular challenges from climate change, a topic King Charles also underscored, warning that the impacts are already disrupting development.
As leaders debate reparatory justice and climate action, the summit highlights the Commonwealth’s complex legacy and its potential for unified, forward-looking efforts.
