14 June 2023, marks the 41st Anniversary of the Liberation from Argentine occupation

14 June 2023, marks the 41st Anniversary of the Liberation from Argentine occupation

On 2 April 1982, our peaceful home was invaded by a hostile neighbour intent on seizing our land and assuming sovereignty, without concern for the safety, security, or rights of the people living here. Over 74 days the horrors that Falkland Islanders and UK armed forces faced were unlike any that had been experienced before.

These memories still remain both physically and mentally 41 years on.

With our freedom restored Falkland Islanders have reiterated their desire to remain part of the UK family. In March 2013 the Falkland Islands held a referendum to decide their political status, where Islanders voted overwhelmingly to remain as a British Overseas Territory, the referendum saw 92% of all eligible voters turn out, resulting in 99.8% of votes being ‘yes’. It was confirmed by the independent observers that the referendum process was free and fair, and was executed in accordance with international standards and local laws.

Chair of the Legislative Assembly, MLA Gavin Short said: “41 years of freedom have seen the Islands grow and develop, from our economy to the people that call the Falkland Islands their home. Throughout all our successes the Falkland Islands continue to be challenged by Argentina, intent on stunting our growth and twisting our arm to change our choice on sovereignty. We showed in 2013 that the political status of the Islands is the decision of our people and not of our aggressive and hostile neighbour. We have and will continue to overcome these challenges with the same can-do attitude that Falkland Islanders are known for.”

“Following last year where we had a year of events commemorating and celebrating the 40th Anniversary of our liberation from Argentine forces, Falkland Islanders have ensured that in our 41st Anniversary we continue to commemorate and celebrate our hard-won freedom and remember all those who gave their lives or live with the scars of war. Without their sacrifice we would not be the country we are today, and for that we will be eternally grateful.”