King Charles III condemns legacy of transatlantic slave trade at Commonwealth summit
At the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, King Charles III expressed horror at the slave trade's legacy while avoiding an apology or reparations, and leaders discussed future cooperation on development issues.
King Charles III opened the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda by describing the transatlantic slave trade as a "shameful chapter of history" that "fills my heart with horror and my soul with the most profound personal sorrow." The monarch said the legacy of the trade still casts a shadow over the islands and other Commonwealth members, but emphasized the need to look forward so that "evil need not have the last word."
Charles stopped short of apologizing for Britain's role or mentioning reparations, instead urging leaders to learn from the past and focus on future partnerships. He highlighted the importance of addressing healthcare, education and climate challenges for those facing hardship and disadvantage.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, also attending the summit, said he is open to discussing an apology and potential debt resets for smaller Commonwealth nations. Burnham announced a €48.2 million investment in critical Caribbean infrastructure over the next three years.
The summit comes amid renewed debate over Britain's historical involvement in the slave trade, which accounted for roughly one-third of all transatlantic voyages and forced the transport of over 3.2 million Africans before abolition acts ended the practice in the early 19th century.