The islands, a British Overseas Territory, enjoy a large degree of internal self-government with the United Kingdom guaranteeing good government and taking responsibility for their defence and foreign affairs.
The population, estimated at 2,841, primarily consists of native Falkland Islanders, the vast majority being of British descent.
Immigration from the United Kingdom, Saint Helena, and Chile has reversed a former population decline.
Major economic activities include fishing, tourism, sheep farming with an emphasis on high-quality wool exports, and oil exploration.
Oil exploration, licensed by the Falkland Islands Government, remains controversial as a result of maritime disputes with Argentina.