At the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, King Charles III acknowledged the deep scars left by Britain’s colonial history, calling for unity and respect as Commonwealth nations grapple with complex legacies and global challenges.
The King’s speech struck a cautious tone, recognizing historical grievances while advocating for solutions focused on the future. The topic of slavery reparations has increasingly gained momentum across Commonwealth countries, with leaders urging Britain to address its historical role in the transatlantic slave trade. Leading up to the summit, reports indicated that diplomats were preparing a statement encouraging a “meaningful, truthful, and respectful conversation” on the matter. However, the UK government has firmly stated that reparations will not be on the table, with British officials, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, stressing a forward-looking approach.
King Charles, addressing a diverse gathering from the 56 Commonwealth member states, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the painful aspects of history to guide a collective, equitable future. “Our cohesion requires that we acknowledge where we have come from,” he said, adding that understanding the past is essential to making responsible choices for the future. He called for member states to adopt “the language of community and respect” over division.
Although the King stopped short of directly addressing slavery in his speech, the themes of historical reckoning were clear. His remarks reflect a shift within the British monarchy in recent years toward a more empathetic stance on colonial history. On previous visits, such as a trip to Kenya last year, Charles expressed “the greatest sorrow and deepest regret” over Britain’s past wrongdoings.
Climate change also took center stage, with King Charles highlighting the urgent challenges facing the Commonwealth, particularly among the island nations. His words underscored the theme of this year’s summit, “One Resilient Future: Transforming Our Common Wealth,” as he noted the destructive climate events affecting Commonwealth countries, from Caribbean storms to flooding in East Africa.The King’s message at CHOGM reflects an evolving Commonwealth, one where historic wounds intersect with contemporary issues like climate resilience and equitable development. Though his speech did not fulfill some hopes for a direct apology, it signals a commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding within this global family, which represents over a third of humanity. As the summit progresses, the demand for justice and acknowledgment of the past remains prominent, shaping the Commonwealth’s collective journey forward.
