At a Commonwealth summit in Samoa, King Charles III acknowledged calls from former British colonies for a reckoning regarding the UK's role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade, stating that while the past cannot be changed, there is an opportunity to learn from it. He emphasized the importance of finding the 'right language' and a deeper understanding of history to address ongoing inequalities, though he did not endorse financial reparations urged by some leaders. His comments align with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's perspective on avoiding extensive discussions about reparations during the summit. Observers suggest that the UK's handling of its colonial legacy is a crucial test for the Commonwealth's relevance today, especially as other nations begin to confront their historical roles in the slave trade. Legal expert Jacqueline McKenzie remarked that while no one expects complete restitution, negotiations on the matter should be taken seriously. The summit highlights the ongoing debate about historical accountability and its implications for modern governance.