Diego Garcia: Uncovering Secrets of the UK-US Island in the Indian Ocean
Diego Garcia, a remote island in the Indian Ocean, is a paradise of lush vegetation and white-sand beaches, surrounded by crystal blue waters. But this is no tourist destination. It is strictly out of bounds to most civilians – the site of a highly secretive UK-US military base shrouded for decades in rumour and mystery.
Access to the island is highly restricted, with permits only granted to those with connections to the military facility or the British authority that runs the territory. Journalists have historically been barred, making it one of the most restricted locations in the world. However, the BBC recently gained unprecedented access to the island to cover a historic court case involving Sri Lankan Tamils stranded on Diego Garcia for three years.
### Unprecedented Access to the Island
For months, the BBC had fought for access to the island to cover the court case involving the Sri Lankan Tamils. The court case has been the subject of complex legal battles, with a judgement soon to determine if the asylum seekers have been unlawfully detained. Despite facing challenges and objections from both the UK and US governments, permission was eventually granted for the BBC to spend five days on the island.
During the visit, strict restrictions were imposed not only on court reporting but also on the journalist’s movements on the island. Despite these constraints, the journalist was able to observe revealing details that shed light on the secretive nature of Diego Garcia.
### A Glimpse of the Island’s Unique Characteristics
Approaching Diego Garcia by plane, the journalist observed coconut trees and thick foliage across the atoll. The island, part of the Chagos Archipelago, is a unique blend of British and American influences. British police cars roam the island, alongside American-style amenities like a bright yellow bus and American food offerings.
While the territory is administered from London, most resources and personnel on the island are under the control of the US. This dual influence is reflected in the island’s infrastructure, currency, and cultural elements.
### The Dark History of Diego Garcia
Diego Garcia’s history is marred by the forced eviction of its indigenous population to make way for the military base. The Chagossians, who had lived on the island for centuries, were forcibly removed in the 1960s to accommodate the UK-US military agreement. This displacement, characterized by inhumane treatment and disregard for human rights, has been deemed a crime against humanity by some legal experts.
The island’s past as a site of forced displacement and colonial exploitation is a stark contrast to its current image as a military stronghold. The remnants of former plantations and abandoned buildings serve as poignant reminders of the island’s dark history.
### The Controversy Surrounding Diego Garcia
Diego Garcia’s contentious status as a UK-US military base continues to be a subject of international dispute. Mauritius, which claims sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, has challenged the UK’s administration of the territory in the International Court of Justice. The court ruled that the UK’s control over the islands is “unlawful” and must end, advocating for the return of the Chagossians to their homeland.
Negotiations between the UK and Mauritius over the future of Diego Garcia are ongoing, with the appointment of key officials to facilitate discussions. The strategic importance of the island, particularly its role in military operations and space tracking capabilities, adds a layer of complexity to the territorial dispute.
### The Legacy of Secrecy on Diego Garcia
Despite its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity, Diego Garcia remains shrouded in secrecy and controversy. Rumours of its use as a CIA black-site and its involvement in rendition operations have fueled speculation about its hidden activities. The strict control of access to sensitive military areas and the monitoring of visitors highlight the island’s history of secrecy and restricted information.
As the court case involving the Sri Lankan Tamils unfolds, the judgement will offer insights into the treatment of individuals on the island and the broader implications for Diego Garcia’s future. The BBC’s unprecedented access to the island provides a rare glimpse into a location steeped in secrecy and surrounded by legal and ethical debates.
