CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News /Agencies/ Bhopal: CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India Epress / ITDC News / Agencies, Bhopal: Britain’s King Charles III has expressed deep sorrow and pain over the history of the transatlantic slave trade, calling it a shameful chapter. He said remembering this history fills his mind with horror and his soul with deep sadness. King Charles made the remarks on November 3 at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda. His statement comes as Caribbean countries have again intensified demands for a formal apology and reparations from Britain.
In his address, the King said the events of the past cannot be changed, but lessons can be learned from them to build a better future. He acknowledged that the history of slavery continues to cast its shadow over the Caribbean islands and several Commonwealth countries. He also said that after listening to, understanding and studying this issue, his commitment to building modern partnerships to address the wrongs of the past had grown stronger.
On the demand for an apology and reparations, Caribbean countries and organisations linked to anti-slavery campaigns say Britain should accept responsibility for its historical role, issue a formal apology and provide compensation to affected countries. They argue that the effects of slavery and colonial rule are still visible today in the form of economic and social inequalities.
During the meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, protesters also raised demands for accountability and reparative justice. However, King Charles neither offered a formal apology in his speech nor supported reparations. He described education, employment, trade among Commonwealth countries and cooperation in tackling climate change as the path for the future.
The British government is also ready for talks. Britain’s Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently said he was prepared to hold discussions on the demand for a formal apology over the history of slavery, but did not consider financial compensation an appropriate solution. In this context, the Commonwealth meeting has become significant for discussions between Britain and Caribbean countries on historical responsibility, apology and reparative justice.
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