The people of the Chagos Islands have won their Court of Appeal case against the British government and have been given the right to return to the homeland after 40 years. The islanders were expelled by the British government in 1961 when they established a base on the largest of the islands, Diego Garcia.
Although the islanders won their initial case in 2000 to return, the British government refused to allow them to return to Diego Garcia because of the treaty they had with the US. This decision over rides that of the British government so after 40 years the people and their descendants who have been displaced can now return home. However the reality is going home at least to settle is not really an option for most citizens, since there is little development and opportunities unless they receive considerable compensation from the British and US governments for the 40 years loss of their land and livelihoods. The struggle Diego Garcia continues……
Tags:
Chagos Islands; Diego Garcia; Britain;
