Argentine President Renews Claim at UN
Argentine President Javier Milei, addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 24, 2025, reiterated Argentina's long-standing claim to sovereignty over the Malvinas (Falkland) Islands. In his speech, President Milei described Argentina's claim as 'legitimate and inalienable' and urged the United Kingdom to resume bilateral sovereignty talks. He also characterized the islands as 'illegally occupied' by the United Kingdom.
This marks President Milei's second address to the annual gathering, where he has consistently advocated for Argentina's position. Previously, he has suggested a 'Hong Kong-style agreement' for the islands' handover and acknowledged that regaining sovereignty would be a process taking 'decades' with 'no instant solution'.
Falkland Islanders Uphold Right to Self-Determination
In response to Argentina's renewed claims, the Falkland Islands have consistently affirmed their right to self-determination. The Falkland Islands Legislative Assembly has repeatedly underscored that the islands' political future is grounded in this principle, which is enshrined in the UN Charter.
A pivotal moment in expressing the islanders' wishes occurred in a 2013 referendum, where 99.8% of voters chose to remain a British Overseas Territory, with a 92% turnout. MLA Mark Pollard of the Falkland Islands Legislative Assembly has stated, 'Our relationship with the United Kingdom is one we have chosen freely.'
The islanders' position is that their democratic choice must be respected, and there can be no dialogue on sovereignty unless they wish it.
United Kingdom Reaffirms Support
The United Kingdom maintains its unwavering support for the Falkland Islanders' right to self-determination and its sovereignty over the islands. UK officials, including Foreign Secretary David Cameron, have pledged ongoing protection for the islands 'as long as they want to be part of the UK family.'
The UK's stance is that sovereignty over the Falkland Islands is 'non-negotiable' and will not be transferred against the democratic will of the people. This position has been consistently articulated at international forums, including the Organization of American States (OAS).
Historical Context of the Dispute
The sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands (known as Islas Malvinas in Argentina) has a long history, with both the UK and Argentina asserting claims dating back centuries. The UK has exercised de facto sovereignty over the archipelago almost continuously since 1833.
The dispute escalated into the 1982 Falklands War, which began when Argentina invaded the islands. The conflict lasted 74 days and concluded with a British victory, returning the islands to British control. Argentina's constitution, amended in 1994, includes a transitional provision reaffirming its claim to the islands. The UK bases its claim on historical discovery, settlement, continuous administration, and crucially, the expressed wishes of the islanders.
5 Comments
Bermudez
It's true the islanders voted overwhelmingly to remain British, but the historical context of how the UK gained control is complex. A dialogue recognizing both historical grievances and current democratic wishes is needed.
Habibi
The economic implications for the islanders staying British are clear, yet Argentina's national pride over the Malvinas is equally intense. Both sides need to consider the human cost of an unresolved dispute.
Muchacho
The UK is right to stand firm. Sovereignty isn't up for debate.
Loubianka
Their self-determination is non-negotiable. The islanders have spoken clearly.
Coccinella
A referendum with only 3000 people? Hardly representative.