Country Profile: South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands

South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands are a remote British Overseas Territory located approximately 1,000 km east of the Falkland Islands. The islands are characterized by rugged, mountainous terrain, with South Georgia being home to no permanent inhabitants but hosting a transient scientific community. Economically, the islands rely primarily on fishing, particularly in their extensive exclusive fishing zone established in 1993. Governance is under British administration, reflecting historical ties, and the territory faces environmental challenges due to the impact of introduced species on native wildlife.

Geography

The South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands are situated in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of the southern tip of South America. The total land area is approximately 3,903 sq km, which is slightly larger than Rhode Island, encompassing several rugged, mountainous islands. The climate features variable conditions predominantly influenced by westerly winds, with most precipitation occurring as snow. The islands' terrain includes significant glacial features and volcanic activity, particularly on the South Sandwich Islands.

• Highest Point: Mount Paget on South Georgia, reaching 2,934 m.
• Exclusive Fishing Zone: Established in 1993, extending 200 nm around each island.
• Natural Hazards: The South Sandwich Islands are subject to active volcanism and severe weather patterns.

People and Society

There are no permanent inhabitants on South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, which are primarily visited by scientific researchers and temporary staff. The historical significance and extreme conditions limit the establishment of a stable population.

Government

As an overseas territory of the UK, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands are administered from the Falkland Islands by a commissioner who also serves as the governor of the Falkland Islands. The territory is claimed by Argentina but operates under British legal jurisdiction. The laws of the UK apply here, and there is no diplomatic representation from or to the United States due to the unique status of the territory.

• Official Name: South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands (SGSSI).
• Flag: Features the UK flag along with a coat of arms representing the territory's native wildlife and historical ties to the UK.

Military and Security

The defense of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands falls under the responsibility of the United Kingdom. Given their remote location and lack of permanent residents, military presence is minimal, focused primarily on ensuring sovereignty and security.

Transportation

Transportation within the islands is limited, featuring three very small ports and one heliport. Grytviken serves as the primary port of entry, facilitating access for research expeditions and temporary personnel.

• Total Ports: 3 (as of 2024), all categorized as very small.
• Heliports: 1 planned by 2025.
• Key Ports: Grytviken, Prince Olav Harbor, and Stromness Harbor.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Total Area	3,903 sq km	Includes all islands in the territory.
Population	0	No permanent inhabitants.
Exclusive Fishing Zone	200 nm	Established in 1993.
Highest Point	2,934 m	Mount Paget on South Georgia.
Ports	3	Very small ports only.
Heliports	1	Planned by 2025.