Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sarah Jane Lebrasse
Published on 2024-02-28 10:00:25
The working workshop dedicated to the creation of a Marine Protected Area (MPA) around the Chagos Archipelago, organized at the initiative of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the Zoological Society of London, opened yesterday, against the backdrop of Mauritius’ claims regarding its sovereignty over the Chagos. “The excision (of the Chagos from Mauritian territory) was carried out in contested circumstances,” reiterated Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth. He emphasized that the Chagossians can contribute significantly to the scientific and conservation aspects of this workshop.
Among the personalities present at the conference opening were individuals associated with the Chagos dossier, including Olivier Bancoult and a delegation of Chagossians, Ambassador Jagdish Koonjul, Mauritius’ Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, Me Philippe Sands, KC, and several high-ranking officials. Despite the presence of several members of the diplomatic corps, the absence of the British High Commissioner, Charlotte Pierre, did not go unnoticed, even though the workshop was organized by a British organization represented by Ambassador Matthew Gould. The latter had lengthy discussions with the Prime Minister on the sidelines of the proceedings.
Speaking at the opening, Pravind Jugnauth highlighted that the Chagos Archipelago harbors unparalleled marine biodiversity in terms of flora and fauna. He noted, however, that this paradise faces significant threats, hence the crucial call to action: the creation of a Marine Protected Area around the Chagos Archipelago, aiming to protect and preserve this unique and fragile environment for the benefit of current and future generations. “The Chagos Archipelago is not an isolated entity. Its health and vitality contribute to the overall resilience of the world’s oceans,” he emphasized.
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to provide a brief historical and legal background on the status of the Chagos Archipelago under international law, emphasizing that the archipelago has always been part of the territory of Mauritius but was excised and incorporated into the so-called British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) in the late 1960s during the decolonization period.
“The excision was carried out in contested circumstances, and the inhabitants of the Chagos Archipelago, around 3,000, who had been living on these islands for generations, were forcibly displaced from their birthplace to make way for the establishment of a major military base at Diego Garcia, with more than half exiled to Mauritius,” he added.
Furthermore, in 2019, the International Court of Justice in The Hague issued an advisory opinion declaring that Mauritius’ decolonization process was not legally completed following the illegal excision of the Chagos Archipelago. The UN body concluded that the detachment of the archipelago from Mauritius was contrary to the right to self-determination, a fundamental principle of international law.
Additionally, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution requesting the UK to withdraw its colonial administration from the Chagos Archipelago and facilitate the return of former residents to their birthplace. “In this context, our discussions on the creation of a Marine Protected Area in the Chagos Archipelago are of profound importance. It is not only an opportunity to contribute to global marine conservation efforts but also to address the historical injustices associated with the colonial past of the Chagos Archipelago,” he explained.
The Prime Minister emphasized the role of partners, specifically the Chagossians, in the potential establishment of the Marine Protected Area. “The Chagossian community, whose connection to the Chagos Archipelago spans several generations, possesses a unique insight into the ecological and cultural dimensions of these islands. Their traditional knowledge and lived experiences offer a valuable perspective, crucial for the successful implementation and sustainability of any conservation effort. Although the historic displacement of the Chagossians remains a poignant and heartbreaking chapter in the history of the archipelago, we stress the importance of recognizing and involving them in future decision-making processes. In line with the principle of justice, their inclusion is not only an ethical consideration but also a strategic imperative for the success of our conservation efforts. The Chagossians can significantly contribute to the scientific and conservation aspects of this workshop. Their understanding of local ecosystems, traditional fishing practices, and the cultural significance of certain areas can enhance our collective knowledge base. Collaboration with the Chagossian community will ensure that our efforts are not only environmentally respectful but also culturally sensitive, promoting a sense of shared stewardship,” he elaborated.
The Prime Minister maintained that it is important to consider the Chagossians as key stakeholders in the decision-making processes concerning the Chagos Archipelago. “Their perspectives, aspirations, and expertise should guide our collaborative efforts towards a comprehensive and inclusive strategy for the establishment and management of the Marine Protected Area,” he reiterated.
Continuing his address, the Prime Minister outlined the guiding principles that Mauritius considers crucial for its long-term vision of the archipelago, including ecological sustainability, cultural preservation, scientific research, economic opportunities, transparency, and accountability.
In conclusion, Pravind Jugnauth emphasized the environmental imperative of this initiative in the Chagos Archipelago. “It is an opportunity to secure a better future for the ecology, culture, and economy of the region. By adopting the guiding principles, harnessing the potential benefits, and carefully addressing key considerations, we can turn this vision into reality,” he stated.
Ambassador Koonjul discussed the representations made at the United Nations Ocean Conference 2022 regarding the establishment of a Marine Protected Area in the Chagos.
Matthew Gould applauded the presence of scientists, experts, policymakers, and representatives of the Chagossian community, coming together around the common mission of protecting nature in Mauritius, the Indian Ocean, and beyond. “It can serve as a model for the world in terms of ocean protection and security,” he acknowledged.
Read the original article(French) on Le Mauricien
