The European People’s Party (EPP) Group, the largest political bloc in the European Parliament, has drawn criticism after publishing a map that appears to show the Falkland Islands as part of Argentina.
Released as part of a campaign promoting the Mercosur Agreement, the map has been criticised in the UK for what many see as a politically charged depiction of the British Overseas Territory.
The map shades the Falklands—known as the Islas Malvinas in Argentina—the same colour as mainland Argentina, a move that has raised questions about whether this was a mistake or a deliberate gesture. The EPP Group was contacted for comment but has not yet responded.
We welcome the conclusion of negotiations on the #Mercosur Agreement.
We are creating the largest free trade zone in the world, with an additional market of 260 million potential consumers of European goods.
It is a win-win for European and South American countries. pic.twitter.com/sHmGreNGxY
— EPP Group (@EPPGroup) December 6, 2024
The Falklands have been a sensitive subject for decades. While the UK has governed the islands since 1833 and a 2013 referendum saw an overwhelming majority of Falkland Islanders vote to remain British, Argentina continues to claim the territory. A map that implies otherwise risks being seen as provocative and could complicate relations between the EU and the UK.
One source familiar with EU-UK diplomatic matters said, “For an organisation as prominent as the EPP Group, accuracy in such sensitive representations is crucial. This map, whether intentional or not, undermines the EU’s stated position of recognising the Falklands as British.”
The EPP Group, which influences a wide range of EU policies, often prides itself on promoting unity and respect for sovereignty. However, critics argue that the map undermines these principles, particularly when it involves a high-profile territorial dispute.
Despite requests for comment, the EPP Group has so far remained silent on the issue. The UK Defence Journal will continue to follow developments and provide updates should the group respond or take action to address the growing criticism.
Theres no reason to get upset about this…some intern has cocked up and it changes nothing.
It won’t be a mess up, there are a few EU nations that are vocal on the topic, including Spain because of gib. Post brexit i assume the EU wants to be neutral, but depends on the purpose of this specific map.
I’d say this is by design, and silly games. However, looking at the FI it looks like they are depicted in both Hemp and Blue? Which to me could be their attempt to highlight a disputed territory claimed by both?
Does anyone give a f**k what the EPP puts on a press release.
NOPE
Their famous eu Brexit negotiator is French toast.
Who cares what some EU functionary or group think or claim?
With our continued cuts cuts cuts in defence they’d rightly assume we’re slowly relinquishing them.
A sensible defence of these islands was always predicated on a secure military airport. Hmg were not prepared at the time to spend those funds. We now have such a base and in addition CVL.
CVL?
Aircraft Carrier (s).
It’s an old U.S. term
CV was carrier
CVL was carrier light
CVA carrier attack
CVAN carrier attack nuclear
CVB carrier large
CVN carrier nuclear
CVS carrier anti submarine
CVE carrier escort
CVT carrier training
CVHE carrier helicopter escort
The USN like their carrier designations
The Falklands is not an issue the UK will get much foreign support for. USA wants influence in South America, Europe gets very petty anti British when the occasion arises. We need to maintain a minimum deterrence.
Agreed, but .ust be credible.
once again, if need reminding our so called allies/mates. Friends. show their support.??not…
This “channel” is desperate.
Nothing more, nothing less.
Channel?
Think he means UKDJ. And lately there is a lot of click bait stuff.
I suspect it is an effort to please Argentina and South America to smouth the trade agreement. A trade agreement bitterly opposed by France. But what can France do they have lost their soveranty to the EU.
🇬🇧 No more said thank you 😊