King Charles III has called on Commonwealth nations to confront the painful legacy of the transatlantic slave trade while focusing on building a stronger and more inclusive future.
Addressing the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, the King described the slave trade as a shameful chapter in history that continues to cast a shadow over Commonwealth nations, expressing profound personal sorrow over the atrocities committed.
He urged member states to learn from the past rather than remain defined by it, stressing the need to transform historical injustices into meaningful action through improved access to education, investment in jobs, expanded intra-Commonwealth trade and climate resilience.
