King Charles III has described the transatlantic slave trade as a shameful chapter in human history that continues to cast a shadow over Caribbean nations and the Commonwealth.
The Head of the Commonwealth has expressed personal sorrow over the horrors and grave abuses of the trade, and said he is committed to working with member states to address its lasting consequences.
Speaking at the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, King Charles said there is much to be learnt from the ghosts of the past.
“History is not ours to choose or change. We cannot change the actions of those who came before us. We can, however, learn from the past,” he said.
His remarks come in response to growing demands for reparatory justice, but he has not provided a formal apology himself.
King Charles pointed to access to education, investment in jobs and opportunities, increased intra-Commonwealth trade, and climate resilience as areas where member states could build stronger partnerships and improve the lives of disadvantaged communities.
His comments follow a statement by UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham before the meeting, signalling Britain’s readiness to consider a formal state apology and to engage in honest dialogue rather than “sticking our heads in the sand” over its past involvement in human trafficking.
Prime Minister Burnham proposed alternative forms of support, such as debt restructuring and more favourable repayment terms for the poorest Commonwealth countries.
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