Learn languages naturally with fresh, real content!

tap to translate recording

Explore By Region

flag UK and Mauritius agree to transfer Chagos Islands sovereignty, but UK retains control of Diego Garcia for 99 years.

flag In January 2026, the UK and Mauritius agreed to transfer sovereignty over most of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a move seen as a step toward decolonization. flag However, the deal excludes the Chagossian people, the indigenous inhabitants forcibly removed decades ago, and preserves UK control over Diego Garcia—home to a key U.S. military base—via a 99-year lease. flag Critics say the agreement sidelines Chagossian rights and entrenches foreign military presence despite the sovereignty shift.

11 Articles