King calls slave trade a 'shameful chapter' during Commonwealth address

King Charles III, speaking at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, described the transatlantic slave trade as a "shameful chapter of history." The monarch expressed "profound personal sorrow" over this period, noting its continued impact on many Commonwealth nations. He stressed the importance of understanding and learning from the past.

Despite his strong words of regret, King Charles did not issue a formal apology for Britain's historical involvement in slavery or commit to reparations. Instead, he focused on actively addressing the lasting effects of the past by promoting initiatives such as improving access to education, investing in employment opportunities, encouraging trade within the Commonwealth, and supporting climate resilience measures.

The King's address took place amidst growing demands for reparatory justice from Caribbean leaders and activists, with some protesters demonstrating outside the meeting. His comments also followed recent statements from British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who indicated a willingness to consider a formal apology but ruled out financial reparations.