UK Affirms Commitment to Uphold Self-Determination for Overseas Territories at UN Fourth Committee

Dear Chair, as this marks the United Kingdom’s first formal address to the Committee during this session, I would like to take a moment to extend my delegation’s heartfelt congratulations to you and the esteemed members of the Bureau on your recent election.

We are eager to engage in fruitful collaboration with you throughout this session.

Strengthening Ties with Overseas Territories

The United Kingdom maintains a progressive relationship with its Overseas Territories, built on principles of partnership, shared values, and the inherent right of the citizens of each Territory to choose whether to remain British. These Territories are largely self-governing, with the UK retaining only those powers necessary to fulfil its international obligations.

Our relationship with each Territory is characterised by close bilateral cooperation, and we convene a Joint Ministerial Council annually with the governments of the Overseas Territories. This forum allows us to monitor and advance our collective priorities while respecting the unique characteristics and needs of each Territory.

We are dedicated to supporting the Territories in their key initiatives, including environmental protection, whilst also fulfilling our constitutional responsibilities, notably in terms of security. We regard these Territories as integral components of the UK homeland concerning our defence and security commitments.

Across the Territories, we offer both financial assistance and practical support to enhance local capacity and resilience where needed. Our nearly £100 million reconstruction programme following Hurricane Irma in Anguilla has now been successfully completed. Additionally, we have facilitated the establishment of a new operational port in Saint Helena, a new hospital under construction in Montserrat, and the implementation of coastal radar systems in Turks & Caicos.

Commitment to Gibraltar’s Self-Determination

I would now like to address specific issues relating to three of the United Kingdom’s Overseas Territories, starting with Gibraltar. The United Kingdom unequivocally affirms that the people of Gibraltar possess the right to self-determination in accordance with the United Nations Charter.

The Gibraltar Constitution of 2006, ratified by referendum, establishes a contemporary and mature partnership between Gibraltar and the United Kingdom. It is thus fitting that the Chief Minister of Gibraltar, as the elected representative of its populace, has addressed the Committee directly. We welcome and support the Gibraltar Government’s active participation.

The United Kingdom reiterates its long-standing commitment to the people of Gibraltar. We will not engage in any arrangements that would see the people of Gibraltar surrender their sovereignty to another state against their freely expressed democratic wishes, nor will we partake in sovereignty negotiations without Gibraltar’s consent.

We acknowledge the Agreement concerning Gibraltar, signed by the European Union and the United Kingdom in Brussels on 14 July 2026. This Agreement, achieved through collaborative efforts with the Government of Gibraltar, does not alter the respective legal positions of the United Kingdom and Spain regarding sovereignty and jurisdiction, and it reaffirms that these positions remain unchanged.

Moreover, it signifies a new chapter of cooperation, trust, and respect among the United Kingdom, the European Union, Spain, and Gibraltar. We encourage all parties to build upon this positive momentum to strengthen cooperation and foster a mutually beneficial relationship grounded in solidarity, dialogue, and shared prosperity.

Sovereignty and Rights in the Falkland Islands

Turning now to the Falkland Islands, the United Kingdom has unwavering confidence in its sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the South Sandwich Islands, along with their surrounding maritime areas. We also affirm the Falkland Islanders’ right to self-determination, a principle enshrined in the UN Charter and supported by both UN covenants on human rights.

In the 2013 referendum, which adhered to international standards and was monitored by independent observers, an overwhelming 99.8 per cent of voters chose to maintain their status as a British Overseas Territory. Argentina’s recent decision to seek arbitration against the United Kingdom under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) represents yet another attempt to undermine the rights and livelihoods of the Falkland Islanders.

The people of the Falkland Islands have determined their own future through a democratic process, and they are entitled to develop and manage their natural resources free from intimidation or external interference. Hydrocarbon activities on the continental shelf surrounding the Falkland Islands are regulated under local law and conducted in full compliance with international law, including UNCLOS.

The United Kingdom remains resolute in our support for the Falkland Islands Government and the Falkland Islanders, firmly defending their rights, economic interests, and autonomy in determining their future.

Partnership with the British Virgin Islands

Lastly, I would like to discuss the British Virgin Islands. The Committee has heard from the Premier, and I must stress that the United Kingdom’s position remains unchanged. Should the British Virgin Islanders express a clear constitutional desire for independence, the United Kingdom Government will fulfil its obligations to assist in realising that goal.

While the British Virgin Islands remains an Overseas Territory, the United Kingdom is committed to working collaboratively with the BVI Government to advance the interests of all its citizens. We have been engaged in constructive discussions regarding constitutional reform, and we will keep the Committee updated on the outcomes of these conversations.

Conclusion: A Commitment to Future Partnerships

In conclusion, the United Kingdom reaffirms its commitment to respecting and defending the rights of the people in each Territory to determine their own futures, in accordance with the UN Charter. Furthermore, I assure you that the United Kingdom will continue to uphold our responsibilities as part of our modern partnership with each of the Overseas Territories.