10 Territories Surprisingly Governed By Foreign Nations In 2024

You might be shocked to hear that in 2024, some territories are still governed by foreign nations. Across the globe, several regions remain non-self-governing, balancing local administration and external control. This article highlights ten such territories, with a look at their political status, historical background, and governing bodies.

Western Sahara

Western Sahara, found in North Africa, is a disputed territory with a long-standing conflict. Although Morocco has controlled most of the region since the 1990s, the indigenous Sahrawi people, represented by the Polisario Front, continue to claim independence. As stated by the United Nations, Western Sahara remains a “non-self-governing territory.”

Puerto Rico

With a population of approximately 3.26 million, Puerto Rico remains a unique political entity in the Caribbean. Although its residents are U.S. citizens, they cannot vote in presidential elections unless they live in a U.S. state. Puerto Rico’s local government operates under its constitution.

Guam

Guam is another U.S. territory in the western Pacific Ocean. According to Wikipedia, it is an important military base for the United States. With approximately 170,000 residents, Guam is politically similar to Puerto Rico, as its people are U.S. citizens but cannot vote in presidential elections.

American Samoa

American Samoa is unique among U.S. territories in the South Pacific because its residents are U.S. nationals but not U.S. citizens unless they go through the naturalization process. It is the only U.S. territory with a communal land ownership system, which reflects its distinct cultural practices.

French Polynesia

While French Polynesia has a local government, France retains its defense and foreign policy authority, as highlighted by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. French Polynesia has been a center of controversy due to its history of nuclear testing during the 20th century, which has left lingering environmental issues.

New Caledonia

New Caledonia, also located in the southwest Pacific, is another French territory with a unique status. According to Wikipedia, in 2024, New Caledonia remains France’s “special collectivity.” Following a referendum in 2021, most of the population voted against full independence, which shows a preference to maintain their association with France.

Falkland Islands (Malvinas)

Filled with hundreds of beautiful islands, this British Overseas Territory is the subject of a long-standing dispute between the United Kingdom and Argentina, which calls it the Malvinas. While Argentina asserts its claim, the islanders favor British sovereignty. Tourism forms the backbone of its economy, with the British military ensuring its defense.

Gibraltar

Gibraltar, home to around 30,000 residents, has been under British governance since the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713. However, Spain still maintains its claim over the territory. Located south of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar’s future relationship with the EU continues to be a subject of discussion today.

Anguilla

Comprising a small main island and several offshore islets, Anguilla is another British Overseas Territory, but it is in the Caribbean. The territory has a government that oversees domestic affairs, but the United Kingdom maintains control over foreign policy and defense. Anguilla has a small population of approximately 14,648 residents.

Tokelau

Tokelau is a small New Zealand territory comprising three atolls in the South Pacific. With a population of roughly 2,400 people, local councils and a chief represent the region in discussions with New Zealand. Tokelau has frequently maintained its connection with New Zealand instead of pursuing full independence.