Renewed discussions regarding the stalled agreement between the UK and Mauritius have raised hopes for the resettlement of Chagossians, although concerns persist among elderly members of the community about the potential for further delays. Olivier Bancoult of the Chagos Refugees Group recounted a poignant moment at a funeral where sand from Chagos was scattered into an elder's tomb, reflecting their longing to return to their homeland.
The treaty, signed by Britain and Mauritius on May 22, 2025, aims to facilitate the resettlement of Chagossians on islands other than Diego Garcia, which is designated to remain a military base. However, the treaty has not yet been implemented due to opposition from US President Donald Trump. Bancoult expressed confidence in the legal backing for their cause, citing the 2019 International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion that supports Mauritius' claim to the archipelago.
The Chagos archipelago was separated from Mauritius in 1965, and between 1968 and 1973, an estimated 1,400 to 1,700 Chagossians were forcibly removed. Many were relocated to Mauritius and the Seychelles, while others moved to the UK. British authorities have historically prohibited Chagossians from returning to the islands without permission.
In April 2026, the UK government informed Parliament that the necessary legislation to implement the treaty would not pass during the 2024-2026 parliamentary session, which concluded on April 29. Trump's criticism of the agreement, labeling it an "act of great stupidity," further complicated matters.
Diplomatic discussions resumed in September, with British Prime Minister Andy Burnham indicating a commitment to work with Mauritius and the US to secure the operation of Diego Garcia while addressing the sovereignty issue. Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam engaged in talks with UK officials regarding the Chagos situation.
Bancoult highlighted the urgency for elderly Chagossians, many of whom are now between 58 and 100 years old, to see the treaty's promises fulfilled. Cultural preservation is also a concern, as Chrisyl Wong-Hang-Sun, an anthropology researcher, noted that years of displacement have made it challenging for the Chagossian diaspora to maintain their cultural heritage.
Political divisions among Chagossians have emerged, with some advocating for resettlement under British sovereignty rather than Mauritian. Wong-Hang-Sun emphasized the need for both governments to engage with the entire Chagossian diaspora.
Mauritius has maintained that its sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago is non-negotiable, with Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful reaffirming this stance at the United Nations General Assembly. International relations consultant Bruno Donat suggested that Mauritius should focus on sustained diplomatic engagement to build pressure on the US regarding the issue.
The Chagos Refugees Group has also been active in lobbying UK political representatives. The continued military presence on Diego Garcia remains a contentious issue, with some Mauritian political groups opposing its use.
Bancoult reiterated the need for urgency, stating that the focus should remain on ensuring that elderly Chagossians have the opportunity to return to their homeland. The Chagos Refugees Group is hopeful for future celebrations, including the 101st birthday of one of its members.