Chagos Archipelago

The Chagos Archipelago has been a focal point of international dispute for decades. Located in the Indian Ocean, it is claimed by Mauritius but controlled by the United Kingdom. The islands have a complex history involving colonialism, military strategy, and indigenous rights. Recent developments indicate a shift in the sovereignty discussions surrounding Chagos, particularly with the 2024 agreement between the UK and Mauritius.

Geographical Overview

The Chagos Archipelago consists of over 60 islands, covering a land area of 56.1 square kilometres. Diego Garcia is the largest island, measuring 32.5 square kilometres. The archipelago is home to the Great Chagos Bank, the world’s largest atoll structure, spanning over 12,642 square kilometres. Despite its size, the islands are sparsely populated and have limited resources.

Colonial History

Chagos was uninhabited for much of its early history. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to map the islands in the 16th century. Permanent settlements began in the 18th century when France claimed the islands. In 1783, a plantation owner from Mauritius established a settlement on Diego Garcia, bringing slaves from Mauritius to work on coconut plantations.

British Control and Military Importance

In 1814, following the Napoleonic Wars, Chagos was ceded to Britain. The abolition of slavery in 1833 led to the introduction of indentured labour from India and Malaya. The US military identified Diego Garcia in the 1950s for a strategic base, leading to the expulsion of Chagossians between 1965 and 1973. The base became operational in 1986 and plays important role in US military operations.

International Legal Developments

Mauritius has long asserted its sovereignty over Chagos. In 2017, the UN General Assembly requested the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to assess the legal status of the archipelago. The ICJ ruled in 2019 that the UK must end its administration of the islands. This ruling prompted the UN to call for the withdrawal of British colonial governance.

2024 Agreement

In October 2024, the UK and Mauritius reached a historical agreement. The UK recognised Mauritius’ claim over Chagos but retained control over Diego Garcia for an initial period of 99 years. Mauritius is allowed to resettle Chagossians on the islands, excluding Diego Garcia. The deal has faced criticism, with some viewing it as a concession to China’s growing influence in the region.

Indigenous Rights and Challenges

The Chagossians, descendants of slaves and indentured workers, are considered the indigenous population of the archipelago. Many Chagossians have expressed dissatisfaction with their exclusion from negotiations regarding their future. Concerns about the management of funds for their resettlement have also been raised, reflecting a broader struggle for recognition and rights.

Current Implications

The Chagos dispute continues to evoke strong sentiments in Mauritius and among the Chagossians. The geopolitical significance of Diego Garcia adds layers of complexity to the sovereignty debate. The evolving dynamics between the UK, Mauritius, and global powers like China will shape the future of the Chagos Archipelago.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the implications of colonialism on the sovereignty of island nations, with specific reference to the Chagos Archipelago.
2. Critically examine the role of international law in resolving territorial disputes, citing the Chagos case as an example.
3. Explain the significance of military bases in international relations, focusing on Diego Garcia.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by indigenous populations in post-colonial contexts, particularly in relation to the Chagossians.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the implications of colonialism on the sovereignty of island nations, with specific reference to the Chagos Archipelago.

1. Colonialism often led to the arbitrary division of territories, disregarding indigenous populations.
2. Chagos was detached from Mauritius during its colonial period, impacting its sovereignty claims.
3. The legacy of colonialism includes ongoing disputes over territorial integrity and self-determination.
4. Chagossians were forcibly removed from their homeland, denoting the human cost of colonial policies.
5. International recognition of sovereignty is often influenced by historical colonial relationships.

2. Critically examine the role of international law in resolving territorial disputes, citing the Chagos case as an example.

1. International law provides frameworks for assessing sovereignty and territorial claims.
2. The ICJ ruled that the UK must end its administration of Chagos, emphasizing the importance of legal opinions.
3. UN resolutions reflect the international community’s stance on colonialism and self-determination.
4. Legal rulings can influence negotiations, as seen in the 2024 agreement between the UK and Mauritius.
5. Challenges remain in enforcing international law, particularly against powerful states.

3. Explain the significance of military bases in international relations, focusing on Diego Garcia.

1. Military bases serve strategic purposes, allowing countries to project power globally.
2. Diego Garcia is crucial for US military operations in the Indian Ocean and beyond.
3. Control over such bases can enhance a nation’s geopolitical influence and security posture.
4. Military bases often lead to tensions with local populations and complicate sovereignty issues.
5. The presence of foreign military bases can shift regional power dynamics, especially in contested areas.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by indigenous populations in post-colonial contexts, particularly in relation to the Chagossians.

1. Indigenous populations often face marginalization and exclusion from political processes post-colonialism.
2. Chagossians have been denied a voice in negotiations concerning their homeland’s future.
3. Economic and social challenges persist, including issues related to resettlement and rights recognition.
4. Historical grievances, such as forced displacement, complicate their quest for justice.
5. Global awareness and advocacy are crucial for addressing the rights of indigenous populations.