King Charles begins Caribbean tour before Commonwealth summit

King Charles III began a nine-day Caribbean tour in the Bahamas on Tuesday 27 October. At a youth gathering in Nassau, he acknowledged suffering and historical injustices linked to slavery, and said Commonwealth leaders from affected countries would discuss its legacy at their summit.

The tour will also include Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda. Queen Camilla is due to join the King in Antigua and Barbuda for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting from 1 to 4 November, bringing together leaders of the 56-member Commonwealth.

Guyana President Irfaan Ali has called for a formal apology from Britain over its colonial involvement in the region. Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has said reparations should be discussed, including financial compensation or other forms of redress. CARICOM approved a revised Ten-Point Plan for Reparatory Justice in July 2026, retaining calls for an apology and measures addressing slavery's long-term effects.

Buckingham Palace has said the King will continue to acknowledge Britain's historical involvement in slavery, but is not expected to make a formal apology during the tour. The United Kingdom does not accept financial liability for historical slavery, while recognising the suffering caused and continuing consequences of the slave trade.

The King is also highlighting climate risks facing island countries during the visit. His itinerary includes environmental initiatives in Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda.