Argentine President Javier Milei has announced plans for a referendum on the future of the Falkland Islands, aiming to allow residents to express their preference for national identity. The vote is scheduled for April 2, 2025, coinciding with Veterans’ Day, which marks the 43rd anniversary of Argentina’s 1982 invasion that led to the Falklands War. This announcement revives longstanding sovereignty disputes between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the archipelago.
Milei’s proposal emphasizes the right of the island’s residents to choose their nationality. He expressed confidence that the people currently living under British administration would opt for recognition as Argentine, stating they would “vote with their feet.” He argued that improving living conditions could persuade the islanders to identify more closely with Argentina.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Milei elaborated, “There’s no way I would give up on or relinquish territory, but it is clear that individuals will end up voting with their feet. If you replicate such living conditions that will ensure high standards of living for them, it may well be that they are more willing to recognise that territory as Argentine.” He advocates for a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the territorial dispute, suggesting that Argentina should foster a commercially viable relationship with the islands.
The British government has responded firmly to Milei’s announcement. A spokesperson reiterated that the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands is “not up for negotiation,” highlighting the islanders’ right to self-determination. In 2013, residents conducted a referendum in which an overwhelming majority chose to remain part of the UK.
As part of his broader agenda, Milei is also urging the UK to lift a longstanding ban on arms sales to Argentina, imposed following the Falklands War. He contends that “there are no world powers without military power,” emphasizing the importance of defense capabilities for a country’s international standing. However, the UK government has stated there are “no specific talks” regarding relaxing arms export controls.
In light of these developments, the relationship between Argentina and the UK remains complex and fraught with historical tensions. As both nations navigate these discussions, the outcome of the proposed referendum could have significant implications for the future governance and identity of the Falkland Islands.
