'My heart is filled with horror’ – King Charles III condemns transatlantic slave trade

King Charles III has expressed profound sorrow over the transatlantic slave trade, describing the historic practice as a shameful chapter that continues to cast a shadow over Caribbean nations and other members of the Commonwealth.

Speaking at the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2026) in St John's, Antigua and Barbuda, on November 3, 2026, the British monarch said the history of slavery remained a painful part of the Commonwealth's shared past.

He acknowledged that the legacy of the trade in enslaved Africans could not be ignored, stressing that while present generations could not change the actions of their forebears, they had a responsibility to learn from them.

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"As I have said before, that shameful chapter of history is one that fills my heart with horror and my soul with the most profound personal sorrow," he said.

King Charles noted that history carried both achievements and failures, adding that its lessons could help societies confront past injustices and shape a better future.

He also spoke about the role played by those who fought to end the international trade in enslaved people, including the Royal Navy, saying their determination demonstrated that even grave injustices could be overcome.

The King said his growing understanding of the issues, through listening and learning, had strengthened his commitment to finding ways for Commonwealth nations to work together in addressing historical wrongs.

"The more I have furthered my own understanding of the issues, through listening, learning and looking, the more committed I have become to finding ways for us to work in modern partnership to address the wrongs of the past with action for the future," he added.

His remarks come as Commonwealth leaders gather in Antigua and Barbuda for CHOGM 2026, which is taking place from November 1 to 4, 2026.

The meeting brings together leaders and representatives from Commonwealth countries to discuss shared priorities and the future of the organisation.

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