Exile and Survival: Life After the Chagos Expulsion

After their forced removal, Chagossians were thrust into unfamiliar worlds. In slums in Mauritius or the Seychelles, they faced poverty, unemployment, and systemic discrimination. They had left behind not just their homes, but their culture, identity, and ancestral ties.

Despite adversity, the Chagossian spirit remained unbroken. Communities stayed together. Music, oral histories, and traditions helped preserve their identity even in exile. This struggle isn’t just about land; it’s about belonging, survival, and human rights.