King Charles has supported UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in his rejection of reparations for slavery, arguing that while no one can undo the past, they can pledge to learn from it and come up with innovative solutions to address persistent injustices. The monarch and new head of the Commonwealth stressed the significance of comprehending and recognizing the most traumatic parts of the past in remarks to Samoan leaders. He also emphasized the necessity of tackling persistent disparities in employment, education, skill development, health, and climate change.
The King seemed to agree with Starmer’s refusal to meet with Commonwealth leaders, especially those from the Caribbean, to discuss plans to look into reparatory justice for the transatlantic slave trade, which could have cost the UK billions of pounds. He prefers to concentrate on contemporary concerns, like the environment.
Charles, in his first address to the biennial assembly of leaders, said he was proud to be present at the assembly of the ‘family of nations’ after Queen Elizabeth’s passing. He emphasized the importance of understanding history to inform decisions in the future while acknowledging the suffering of the past and the diversity of human complexity. He urged the Commonwealth family to reject divisiveness and adopt a language of respect and community.
King Charles concludes by saying that although no one can undo the past, they can pledge to use the lessons learned from it and come up with innovative solutions to address persistent injustices.
