King Charles labels transatlantic slave trade a “shameful chapter” at Commonwealth summit
The monarch expressed “profound personal sorrow” over the slave trade while opening the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda.
King Charles 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 trade still casts a shadow over these islands and other members of our Commonwealth, the King said, adding that his growing understanding of the issue has deepened his commitment to “finding ways for us to work in modern partnership to address the wrongs of the past with action for the future.”
The monarch’s remarks came amid calls for the United Kingdom to issue a formal apology for its historic role in the slave trade ahead of the summit. No apology was offered in the address.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham, also speaking at the summit, said his government is “open to Britain issuing a formal apology” but ruled out any financial reparations.
King Charles reflected on history’s dual inheritance, stating, “Our inheritance includes both their achievements and their failures – the good they did as well as the wrongs.” He also referenced “brutal conflicts,” the “catastrophic reality” of climate change and rapid technological development.
The biennial CHOGM gathers leaders from 56 states, a voluntary grouping of mostly former British territories. This year’s official theme is “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”
Burnham added that his government is pursuing a “new approach, aiming to revitalise the Commonwealth,” while maintaining the stance against reparations.
The summit continues as leaders discuss partnership, investment and the lingering legacy of the slave trade within the Commonwealth framework.
