United Nations Expresses Deep Concern Over Potential UK Direct Rule in the British Virgin Islands

The United Nations has raised a red flag concerning the persistent possibility of the United Kingdom imposing direct rule over the British Virgin Islands.

The gravity of this concern was underscored in a resolution titled ‘Question of the British Virgin Islands,’ passed during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The resolution explicitly addresses the potential implementation of an Order in Council—a measure that could result in the partial suspension of the British Virgin Islands’ constitution, stating, ‘Expressing concern that the administering Power put an Order in Council on hold to partially suspend the Constitution if the Government of the United Kingdom assesses that the implementation of the recommendations does not proceed satisfactorily.’

The resolution goes on to call for the full respect of the Constitution and mutual agreement regarding the recommendations outlined in the report of the Commission of Inquiry. It urges all involved parties to engage in dialogue and collaborative efforts in the best interest of the people of the Territory.

In a final plea, the resolution reiterates the call upon the United Kingdom, specialised agencies, other UN organisations, and regional bodies to extend all necessary assistance to the British Virgin Islands. The resolution emphasises support for recovery and rebuilding efforts and the enhancement of capabilities for emergency preparedness and risk reduction, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria that devastated the Territory in 2017.

Resolution A/Res/78/89 on the Question of the British Virgin Islands, adopted on 7th December 2023, underscores the international community’s focus on the delicate situation and the need for a cooperative approach to address the challenges faced by the British Virgin Islands.