Courtesy: mvemilygrace
Shameful Lies, Legal Abuse & Abandonment
But, never forgotten!
Courtesy: mvemilygrace
Now, to be Resuscitated
with all Technological Innovations!
In tune with NATURE & away from CONSUMERISM
where FREEDOM & RESPECT prevail
Courtesy: Clément Siatous
Courtesy: mvemilygrace
One SUGGESTION is for an Initial MODEST RESETTLEMENT in 8 distinct Phases, over a 2-Year Period for a Total Population of about 400, without any major industrial, trade or tourist development & infrastructure. But rather, an "Eco-conscious Lifestyle & Tourism" in a spirit of pilgrimage, far from consumerism. However, this "FIRST STEP" Resettlement will from the outset, include the best of what the World has to offer in terms of solar energy, desalination plant, fully-furnished & insulated prefab homes, internet, satellite communications and other cutting-edge technological innovations. Another deeply meaningful and strategically important initiative for the Chagossian Resettlers is the restoration & reconstruction of an HERITAGE-CULTURAL VILLAGE in Peros Banhos; as this village will serve three interconnected purposes: residential use, cultural preservation and tourism. It will be the HEART of the planned resettlement!
This, by no means, excludes more ambitious MALDIVES & SEYCHELLES-like developments in the FUTURE; nor does it precludes the CHAGOSSIANS to IMMEDIATELY establish the necessary structures (as soon as the UK - Mauritius Agreement is ratified and the Mauritian Government Formalities completed), to benefit from such Business Activities as claiming fees for Fishing Rights, Yachts' Visits & Registrations, Mooring & Replenishments, Minor Yacht Repairs, High-end self-sustained Yachts Vacations in secluded mooring spots nearby remote islands, Other Tourist Entry Fees, Excursion & Guided Tours, Catering, Fishing, Boating, Snorkeling & Scuba-Diving, Film Crew Hosting & Service, Sea-Sports Competitions, Artists Residency, University & Institutions (Oceanic & other) Research Work fees & Grants, Maritime Control, Security & Rescue Service, Ownership of IO Domain Name, Diégo Label Rights on a range of Merchandise, and the like. And this, in addition to getting the agreed share of Rental & Grant Monies for subsistence & development, as per the Mauritius - UK Agreement.
The Chagos Community, First!
Besides Compensation and Resettlement, the Chagos Community remains the most important issue, to-day; and in the future! Its dignity is non-negotiable. Its strength and perseverance are legend. Its struggle is its pride. Its hope rests on dedication and hard work. Its respect for elders is an example. And, because its development must benefit all within its realm, it is imperative that a spirit of sharing and mutual-support must continue to prevail. Good communication should continue to strengthen its unity and sense of belonging. As together, just like in the past, the Chagos community will advance surely and securely in the knowledge that they are heading in the right direction, towards community success, well-being and happiness. This should remain the golden thread of any plan. One that addresses the immediate needs of cleaning, restoring and rebuilding; but also, a plan that provides real opportunities for future generations, in 5, 10, 20 years-time, and beyond. And if the objective is to make of Chagos a World Model, one needs to think of the attractive opportunities that need to be created for to-day’s Chagossian Grand-children and Great-grand-children; whether he is in the Chagos or anywhere else in the World. The diaspora must grow and be solidified. And, that is an enormous task that requires the full collaboration of all. The Chagos must also be a State-of-Mind!