Maldives tells UK it does not recognise Chagos Islands deal

The Maldives government has asserted a claim to the Chagos Archipelago, challenging both Mauritius’s and the United Kingdom’s positions regarding sovereignty of the islands. The move comes as a deal between the UK and Mauritius over the archipelago faces increasing scrutiny.

Chagos Islands Dispute

A 2023 ruling by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) bolstered Mauritius’s claim to the Chagos Islands, endorsing a 2019 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ICJ determined that the UK’s 1965 separation of the islands from Mauritius was unlawful and called for the UK to end its administration as quickly as possible.

While the ICJ opinion is non-binding, it prompted a near-unanimous vote by the UN General Assembly in 2019 demanding the archipelago’s return to Mauritius.

The Maldives, however, maintains it has a prior claim to the islands based on historical and geographical proximity. “Accordingly, if sovereignty is to be vested in any nation, it must rightfully be the Maldives,” a statement from Muizzu’s office said.

The Maldives government stated it will “pursue all available avenues for a formal submission” to the ICJ and will “assess all lawful means to uphold the national interest.” They expressed hope for “meaningful dialogue” with the UK, emphasizing “mutual respect and historical accuracy.”

A potential legal challenge from the Maldives would further complicate the UK’s agreement with Mauritius. The deal has already faced opposition from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated in February that “this land should not be taken away from the UK.” This statement contrasted with official backing for the UK’s plan from the U.S. Department of State.

Many Chagossians oppose the deal, hoping the UK will retain sovereignty to allow for their eventual return to their homeland. Both the Conservatives and Reform UK have also voiced staunch opposition to the agreement.