Orkney Islands Explores Greater Autonomy Following Brexit, Raises Independence Possibility

In a move that has captured international attention, officials from the Orkney Islands, a region in Scotland known for its Viking heritage and independent spirit, have voted to investigate avenues for increased autonomy and potential independence from what they perceive as neglectful U.K. governments.

The Orkney Islands Council’s decision to explore “alternative models of governance” for the archipelago, which boasts a population of 22,000, garnered significant media coverage across the globe. James Stockan, the council leader, sparked interest with his proposal, which mentioned the potential revival of Orkney’s “Nordic connections.” Historically, the islands were under Norwegian and Danish rule until 1472 when they were incorporated into the Scottish crown as part of Margaret of Denmark’s marriage dowry to King James III of Scotland.

Stockan clarified that the proposal did not intend for Orkney to join Norway but aimed to address the discrimination the community has faced from the Scottish and U.K. governments. Expressing his determination, Stockan asserted, “Enough is enough.” He urged the government to take their concerns seriously and emphasized the importance of exploring all available options.

A report accompanying Stockan’s motion suggested that Orkney should examine possibilities such as adopting a status similar to that of the Faroe Islands, a self-governing dependency of Denmark located between Scotland and Iceland. Another option involves following the model of Britain’s Crown Dependencies, including the Channel Islands of Jersey and Guernsey.

Once a financially deprived region heavily reliant on the uncertain fishing industry, Orkney experienced economic growth after significant offshore oil reserves were discovered in the 1960s. The islands, situated approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) north of mainland Scotland, have also witnessed the flourishing of wind power and tourism sectors.

However, Stockan argued that Orkney receives less support from the Scottish government compared to other island communities like Shetland or the Hebrides. He highlighted the urgent need for new ferries to maintain vital connections between the islands.

Duncan Tullock, another councilor, expressed his disillusionment with both the Scottish and U.K. governments, stating that Orkney was “living off crumbs.” He emphasized the repeated empty promises made to the community.

While achieving significant constitutional changes presents a considerable challenge, requiring referendums and legislation from both the Scottish and U.K. governments, the governments in Edinburgh and London currently clash over the Scottish administration’s aspiration to establish Scotland as an independent country separate from the United Kingdom.

The U.K. government maintains that there is “no mechanism” to alter Orkney’s status, and the Norwegian government considers the debate a “domestic and constitutional British matter” with no official stance.

Councilor David Dawson criticized some of the proposed ideas for Orkney as “daydreams,” particularly the notion of becoming a self-governing dependency of Norway, which he deemed “frankly bizarre.” He cited the U.K.’s tumultuous departure from the European Union, known as Brexit, as a cautionary tale about the risks of pursuing independent paths.

“Let me offer you a word of caution,” he remarked, “Brexit.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about autonomy

More about autonomy

• Orkney Islands Council Official Website
• BBC News – Orkney Islands vote to explore more autonomy
• The Guardian – Orkney Islands seek more autonomy from UK
• Faroe Islands Official Website
• Channel Islands Official Website
• History of the Orkney Islands
• Scottish Government Official Website
• UK Government Official Website
• Norwegian Government Official Website