Pope Leo XIV has praised the UK’s agreement to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, calling it a “significant victory” for the Chagossian people who were forced from their

homeland decades ago.

The Pope met with 15 members of the Chagos Refugees Group at the Vatican, where he expressed his joy over the deal. Speaking in French, he told them:

 “The renewed prospect of your return to your native archipelago is an encouraging sign and a powerful symbol on the international stage.”

He went on to stress that people have the right to live on their own land and should never be forced into exile.

What’s in the deal?

The agreement, signed in May, will see the UK transfer sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius. However, the US and UK will continue operating a military base on Diego Garcia—the largest island—for the next 99 years.

As part of the treaty:

- The UK will pay Mauritius about £101m each year for 99 years.

- A 24-mile security buffer will be enforced around Diego Garcia.

- Foreign militaries will not be allowed on other islands in the chain.

- The UK will still have veto power over who can access the islands.

The deal still needs approval from both the UK and Mauritian parliaments before it officially takes effect.

A long fight for justice

The Chagos Islands were split from Mauritius in 1965, just before the country gained independence. In the late 1960s and early 70s, the islands were cleared so that the UK and US could build a major military base. Many Chagossians were sent to Mauritius, Seychelles, or later to the UK—particularly in Crawley, West Sussex.

For years, Mauritius has argued the separation was illegal, and displaced Chagossians have fought to return to their homeland.

Mixed reactions

Mauritian officials have celebrated the deal. Attorney General Gavin Glover said: “Our country is elated that this 60-year struggle is finally over.”

But not everyone is happy. Some Chagossians living in the UK, along with opposition politicians, have criticised the agreement. Two women born on Diego Garcia even launched a last-minute legal challenge in May, hoping for the right to return. The High Court, however, dismissed their case.

Meanwhile, critics in the UK—especially the Conservatives—argue the agreement weakens Britain’s position globally, warning it leaves the UK more vulnerable to Chinese influence. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer defended the deal, saying it was the only way to guarantee security and prevent other powers from moving in.

At the Vatican, Pope Leo reminded leaders that the story of the Chagossians is ultimately about dignity and justice:

“All people must be respected in their identity and rights—above all, the right to live on their land.”