United Nations Human Rights Evaluation, Session 45: United Kingdom's Statement Regarding Mauritius' Human Rights Record
In a significant development, the United Kingdom and Mauritius have reached an agreement on May 22, 2025, formally transferring sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia. This move acknowledges prior UK administration as unlawful and aims to provide reparations to Mauritius, in line with international court rulings [1][3].
Under the terms of the agreement, Mauritius is recognised as the sovereign nation over the territory. However, the UK retains the right to lease the US military base on Diego Garcia for 99 years, allowing continued US strategic operations there [4]. The agreement also establishes cooperation on environmental conservation, with the creation and management of a large marine protected area (MPA) around the islands [3].
The deal, estimated to cost the UK nearly £35 billion over 99 years [5], has sparked domestic political debate in the UK, and there are threats of diplomatic repercussions on Mauritius from some parties who oppose the deal [2].
Meanwhile, the Mauritian government is also called to amend its Criminal Code to reflect this decision. The country has made significant progress on human rights since its last review [6].
The discussion on the Chagos Archipelago has been a recurring topic at the United Nations Council, with the current exchange also taking place there [7][8]. The impact of climate change on the human rights situation in Mauritius, as a Small Island Developing State, needs to be monitored and reported [9].
In addition, regular reporting on the progress of the National Gender Policy and the National Strategy & Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence is required from Mauritius [10]. The Working Group report, reflecting the ongoing negotiations between the UK and Mauritius over the Chagos Archipelago, will be produced following the current discussion at the United Nations Council [11][12].
The Working Group report will also reflect exchanges on the Chagos Archipelago that occurred at the United Nations Council [13]. The Supreme Court of Mauritius has made a decision on same-sex sexual relations [14].
As the negotiations progress, it is crucial for Mauritius to fully implement the National Gender Policy and the National Strategy & Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence [15]. The resolution of the sovereignty dispute in favour of Mauritius marks a significant step forward, but practical matters such as military base usage and environmental management remain subject to ongoing arrangements and political contention [1][3][4][5].
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