The Political and National Identity of Falkland Islanders
The Falkland Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic, have a unique and often misunderstood political and national identity. This article explores the complexities surrounding the term 'Falkland Islander' and the legal and practical aspects of Falkland Islanders' nationality. It also delves into the historical context of their political status and the diverse nationalities present on the islands.
Is ‘Falkland Islander’ a Nationality?
Technically, 'Falkland Islander' is not a recognized nationality under British nationality law. The Falkland Islands Constitution and Falkland Islands Status Ordinance refer to Falkland Islanders as having a status unique to the territory, which can be revoked. However, the term 'Falkland Islander' is often used to describe the local population's national identity and sense of community.
Legal Status and Citizenship
The legal status of Falkland Islanders is nuanced. The Falkland Islands Nationality (Falkland Islands Status) Ordinance provides that a person can be recognized as a Falkland Islander under certain conditions, but this status does not equate to British citizenship. There are provisions for British citizenship 'by birth, naturalisation, or registration in the Falkland Islands.' However, this does not change the fact that Falkland Islanders are not an independent nation.
Majority Identification and Nationalism
According to the last census, 59 individuals identified as Falkland Islanders, while about 30 identified as British. It's important to note that the Falkland Islands are classified as a country but not a sovereign state. While the islands have a distinct political and national identity, they are administered as part of the British Crown Dependencies and governed by the government of the United Kingdom.
What Nationality are Falkland Islanders?
The islanders are diverse, comprising over a dozen nationalities from nearly 30 different countries. Approximately 200 people are Chilean nationals, with sizable numbers of Peruvians, Filipinos, and Zimbabweans as well. Many are indeed lawfully Falkland Island nationals, and 81% of permanent residents held British citizenship in the 2016 census. This highlights the complex interplay between nationality and citizenship.
Political and Historical Context
The political status of Falkland Islanders has a rich and often dark history. In 1981, legislation was passed that prevented Falkland Islanders from being considered British citizens, a move that some argue was a snub to their identity. It wasn't until after the 1982 war that the UK Government re-categorized Falkland Islanders as British nationals out of shame and to assert its international posture.
The Rare Breed of Falkland Islanders
Despite the political and legal complexities, the Falkland Islanders are indeed British in the broader sense. This is reflected in the wide variety of nationalities present on the islands, with significant numbers of people claiming Falkland Islander as their nationality. For instance, some 59 individuals out of the census identified as 'Falkland Islanders,' and the majority also identified as 'British'. This demonstrates a strong sense of national identity despite the lack of formal recognition as a separate nationality.
Conclusion and Nationality
Falkland Islanders face a unique and intriguing set of challenges and opportunities due to their status. While they are not an independent nation, they have a distinct regional identity and a strong connection to the United Kingdom. The term 'Falkland Islander' is more about national identity and a sense of belonging rather than formal nationality.
The diversity of nationalities in the Falkland Islands adds to their rich and complex cultural tapestry. Whether one identifies as a Falkland Islander or British, or holds another nationality, these individuals form a community that is both resilient and unique in its national and political environment.