Tiny Shetland Island Declares Independence

Forvik IslandOne of the reasons people own private islands is that they provide a sense of ownership and control and although it is next to impossible to declare your island an independent nation, it does not stop some people from trying.

It has been reported that the owner of a tiny island off Scotland declared its independence from the UK on Saturday, saying he wanted the territory, population one, to be a crown dependency like the Channel Islands.  In a declaration that was published on his website, Stuart Hill, owner of the 2.5 acre island of Forvik said he no longer recognized the authority of the government or the European Union and cited a centuries old royal marriage dowry as the basis for his claim.

Mr Hill,  has lived on the island since 2001 when his boat capsized there during failed a attempt to circumnavigate Britain. He is Forvik’s only resident and his home is a tent on the Atlantic island. Hill said he had written to the Queen offering his services as “steward” and recognising her as head of state.  Mr Hill has also added that he invites …” anyone from any country in the world, who supports these aims, namely to become free of liars, thieves and tyrants in government, to become a citizen of Forvik”

I guess this is perfect for anyone out there who dreams of starting their own country. It seems that there is potential to co-stewart an island with Mr. Hill.  Although you may have to be okay with sharing a tent with this gentleman.  I am curious how the government will respond to this claim.

 For more visit Yahoo News

1 Responses »

  1. Is that the island in the photo? Why’s he living in a tent when there’s clearly at least one building? Does he own the land, or is he just claiming that too?

    I admire what he’s doing. I’d love to give it a go, although I wouldn’t accept a foreign power being head-of-state, I’d build myself a palace and declare war on any nation that tried to annex me. :)

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