Why does the United Kingdom claim sovereignty over the Falkland Islands?

The United Kingdom’s claim to the Falkland Islands is primarily based on its "open, continuous, effective possession, occupation, and administration" of the territory since 1833. Although the British withdrew from a previous settlement in 1774, they did so without renouncing their claim to the islands.1

Following the expulsion of Argentine officials in 1833, Britain established a consistent administrative presence, appointing a civilian lieutenant governor by 1841 and fostering a self-supporting community.1

Central to the modern British position is the ethical principle of self-determination, as recognized in the United Nations Charter. Britain maintains that the islanders have the fundamental right to determine their own political status. This commitment was demonstrated in a 2013 referendum, in which 99.8 percent of voters chose to remain a British overseas territory. Britain asserts that overriding the wishes of the current population would be a violation of their rights and would effectively create a colonial situation rather than resolve one.12