Empire 229. Britain’s Last Colony: The Second World War, Forced Deportations, and 9/11 (Ep 1)
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Feb 13, 2025 Philippe Sands, an international human rights lawyer known for his advocacy for the Chagossian people, joins the discussion to unravel the complex history of the Chagos Islands. He sheds light on the forced deportations and the lingering impacts of imperialism. The strategic significance of Diego Garcia as a military base, especially during World War II, is examined. Sands emphasizes the emotional toll on the Chagossians and the ongoing legal battles for their repatriation, making a powerful case for recognizing their plight in a global context.
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Unexpected Call
- Philippe Sands was contacted by the Mauritian Prime Minister's office while on a ski lift.
- This unexpected call initiated his involvement in the Chagos Islands dispute.
Strategic Importance and Colonial History
- The Chagos Islands, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, were strategically important due to their location.
- Control of the islands shifted between various colonial powers, including Portugal, the Dutch, French, and finally the British in 1814.
Discovering the Chagossian Struggle
- Philippe Sands felt a sense of shame for not knowing about the Chagos Islands and the plight of the Chagossians.
- He learned of the legal battles led by Olivier Bancou, a Chagossian born on the islands, for the right to return.