FOTBOT launches Parliamentary Declaration to Reaffirm Self-Determination of the British Overseas Territories

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

18th February 2026

Parliamentary Declaration Launched to Reaffirm Self-Determination of the British Overseas Territories

Friends of the British Overseas Territories (FOTBOT) today launches a Parliamentary Declaration inviting Members of the House of Commons and Members of the House of Lords to affirm their support for the principle of self-determination across all fourteen British Overseas Territories.

The Declaration sets out a clear constitutional position: that the people of each Overseas Territory alone have the inalienable right to determine their political future, and that no change to sovereignty or constitutional status should take place without their freely expressed democratic consent.

It further recognises the United Kingdom’s responsibilities to uphold justice, good governance and the rule of law in the Territories, to support their environmental stewardship and climate resilience, and to ensure that their economic security and international standing are protected through proper consultation and partnership.

The Declaration is open to all MPs and Peers. Parliamentarians may sign by emailing declaration@fotbot.org from their official parliamentary email address. Signatories will be listed publicly at fotbot.org/declaration.

James Lunn, Chief Executive of Friends of the British Overseas Territories, said:

“This Declaration is about reaffirming a fundamental constitutional principle: that the future of the British Overseas Territories belongs only to their people. Self-determination is not a slogan, it is the foundation of the modern relationship between the United Kingdom and the Territories. Nothing about them should be decided without them.

We are inviting parliamentarians from all parties and none to stand behind that principle. The Overseas Territories are home to British citizens who deserve clarity, respect and constitutional certainty. This Declaration provides a simple opportunity for Parliament to affirm that commitment.”

The principle of “nothing about you without you” applies equally to all fourteen British Overseas Territories and their people. The Declaration is not directed at any single Territory or discrete issue. It articulates an overarching constitutional principle: that democratic consent must remain the central and governing consideration in all decisions affecting sovereignty, governance and international representation.

Friends of the British Overseas Territories is a non-partisan charity dedicated to promoting, supporting, and increasing awareness of the UK Overseas Territories.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

• The full text of the Declaration is available at fotbot.org/declaration

• Parliamentarians may sign by emailing declaration@fotbot.org with a parliamentary email.

• Friends of the British Overseas Territories is a cross-party organisation supporting engagement with all fourteen British Overseas Territories.

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enquiries@fotbot.org