King Charles acknowledged Britain’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade as “shameful” during his speech opening the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (Chogm) in Antigua. He stopped short of issuing a formal apology, a decision that comes amid ongoing debates over slavery reparations within the Commonwealth.
The summit, which began this week, brought together leaders from across the 56-member Commonwealth. Charles’s address touched on the legacy of slavery and colonialism but avoided committing the UK to reparations or a formal apology. The British monarch’s remarks appeared carefully measured, reflecting sensitivities around the topic within the Commonwealth and at home.
The question of reparations has intensified in recent years, with several Commonwealth countries pressing the UK for official recognition and compensation for its historic role in slavery. On this issue, UK government minister Kemi Badenoch spoke during the summit, rejecting the idea that Britain should reconsider its Commonwealth membership due to such demands.
Badenoch said she did not agree with calls for reparations, arguing, “most Commonwealth countries aren’t doing this.” She contrasted the UK’s position with China, saying, “China did all sorts of things. It’s not out there apologising.”
The minister added that offering an apology would “make us look weak” and warned it could open the door to “every man and his dog making demands and sending us an invoice,” which she claimed would ultimately fall on British taxpayers.
The debate over reparations remains unresolved. Several Commonwealth nations, including Caribbean states, have intensified pressure for Britain to acknowledge and compensate for the damage caused by slavery. Antigua, the summit’s host country, is among those advocating for a formal apology.
Charles’s use of the word “shameful” to describe Britain’s role was notable for its frankness but stopped short of the full reckoning some attendees and campaigners have demanded. The monarch’s speech reiterated themes of unity and shared future prospects within the Commonwealth, while addressing historical grievances cautiously.
The UK government has long resisted formal reparations, citing practical and legal challenges, and concerns about setting a precedent that could lead to extensive financial claims. Badenoch’s comments reinforced this official stance, framing the issue in terms of national interest and fiscal responsibility.
The Commonwealth summit in Antigua will continue over the coming days, with discussions expected on economic cooperation, climate change, and social development alongside the unresolved issue of historical accountability.
The absence of a formal apology from King Charles at the summit reflects the continuing tensions within the Commonwealth over how to confront colonial legacies and slavery’s impact today.
According to The Guardian.
