The Falklands question “must be considered in the light of the wishes of the people who live there”
Key takeaways
- The question of the Falkland Islands must be considered in light of the wishes of the people who live there.
- Furthermore, Falkland Islanders have the right to develop their natural resources for their own economic benefit.
- Lord Collins added that calls for discussions on sovereignty do not alter this reality.
Why this matters: an international story with cross-border implications worth tracking.
The question of the Falkland Islands must be considered in light of the wishes of the people who live there. The Islanders have the right to determine their own political future, and they have expressed that choice clearly and democratically, pointed out Deputy Leader of the House of Lords, Lord Collins speaking during the 56th regular session of the OAS General Assembly in Panama City, Panama.
Furthermore, Falkland Islanders have the right to develop their natural resources for their own economic benefit. The decision to pursue hydrocarbon development was a democratic choice by the people of the Falkland Islands alone, and it is for the Falkland Islands Government to pursue production alongside the commercial companies involved, this is an integral part of the Islanders right of self- determination .
Lord Collins added that calls for discussions on sovereignty do not alter this reality. Any approach to this issue must respect the principle that the Islanders wishes come first. Without their consent, there can be no change to their status.