How did the 2009 constitution change self-government in the Falkland Islands?

The 2009 constitution significantly enhanced the self-government of the Falkland Islands by providing the territory with a greater degree of autonomy compared to the previous 1985 constitution.1

Key changes and features include:

• Strengthened Local Democracy: The constitution bolstered the islands' local democratic government and explicitly reserved for the islanders the right to determine the territory’s political status.2
• Legislative Structure: It established a Legislative Assembly consisting of 10 members, eight of whom are elected to four-year terms as independents.1
• Executive Council: The governor, who holds executive authority, is advised by an Executive Council that includes three elected members of the Legislative Assembly. While the governor must consult with this council in the discharge of most duties, they retain the power to act against its advice in specific circumstances.1

While the 2009 framework grants more independence, the governor remains required to consult with the regional commander of the British military regarding matters of internal security and defense.1