Gibraltar

Gibraltar is an overseas territory of the United Kingdom. It is located in southwestern Europe adjoining the southern coast of Spain, a strategic location on the Strait of Gibraltar that links the North Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, also placing it between Europe and Africa. The British Armed Forces had a major presence on the territory, and although the forces presence now is much reduced, there are many reminders of their previous importance.

Politics

Main article: Politics of Gibraltar, see also Disputed status of Gibraltar.

Related Topics:
Politics of Gibraltar - Disputed status of Gibraltar

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As an overseas territory of the UK, Gibraltar has had considerable internal self-government since the introduction of its present constitution in 1969. The Governor of Gibraltar, appointed by Queen Elizabeth II, is responsible for defence, foreign relations, internal security and financial stability. All other matters, defined as 'domestic', are the responsibility of the Council of Ministers, with the leader of the majority party in the elected House of Assembly appointed as Chief Minister.

Related Topics:
Overseas territory - 1969 - Governor of Gibraltar - Queen Elizabeth II - Council of Ministers - House of Assembly - Chief Minister

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The issue of sovereignty continues to dominate Gibraltar politics. Both main political parties, the Gibraltar Social-Democrats (GSD) and the Gibraltar Socialist Labour Party (GSLP) are opposed to any transfer of sovereignty to Spain. Spain continues to request the return of sovereignty over the territory, and the British Government, whilst stating that no change would take place without the consent of the people of Gibraltar, in 2002 accepted the principle of joint sovereignty between the United Kingdom and Spain. All local political parties opposed this move, instead supporting self-determination for the Rock, as do the main UK opposition parties. The notion of accepting an arrangement with Spain was resoundingly rejected by the population in two referenda held in 1967 and in 2002, the latter just months after the joint sovereignty principle was accepted by the British government. On both occasions well over 95 percent of voters said they wanted to remain British; on the latter occasion, the percentage was 98.97 percent.

Related Topics:
Sovereignty - Gibraltar Social-Democrats - Gibraltar Socialist Labour Party - 2002 - Self-determination

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(For details on Gibraltar's status in the EU, see Special member state territories and their relations with the EU.)

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