UK Pauses Chagos Islands Transfer to Mauritius

Why in News?

United Kingdom has paused its plan to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius due to concerns raised by the United States.

Historical Background

• 1965: UK separated Chagos Islands from Mauritius before its independence
• Created a new territory called British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT)
• 1968–1973: Around 2,000 Chagossians were forcibly displaced to Mauritius and Seychelles
• Purpose: Establish a joint UK-US military base at Diego Garcia

In 2019, the International Court of Justice ruled:

• Separation of Chagos Islands from Mauritius was illegal
• UK should end its administration “as rapidly as possible”
• UN General Assembly also supported Mauritius’ claim

UK had earlier agreed in principle to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius However, the plan is now paused due to lack of formal approval from the United States.

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