Although the wave of decolonization in the 20th century led to the independence of dozens of nations, some territories around the world remain under the control of former colonial powers. These territories are often referred to as non-self-governing or dependent territories.
While they are not typically referred to as "countries" in the traditional sense due to their lack of full sovereignty, they function as distinct entities with their own cultures, local governments, and, in some cases, strong nationalist movements.
Below are a few of the most notable examples of territories that are still colonies in the modern era and have never achieved full independence.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the Caribbean Sea. It was ceded by Spain to the U.S. in 1898 following the Spanish-American War.
Since then, Puerto Rico has remained under American sovereignty, despite multiple referendums held over its status.
The people of Puerto Rico are U.S. citizens, but the territory lacks voting representation in Congress and its residents cannot vote in U.S. presidential elections.
Over the years, there has been ongoing debate over whether Puerto Rico should become a U.S. state, remain a territory, or pursue independence.
While there are independence movements on the island, they have historically been less popular than statehood or maintaining the status quo. Puerto Rico has never been an independent nation.
Greenland
Greenland is the world’s largest island and is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. Although Greenland has a great deal of self-governing authority, especially after achieving home rule in 1979 and further autonomy in 2009, it is not fully independent.
Denmark still controls its foreign affairs and defense. Greenland was a Danish colony until 1953, when it became part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and although it has moved toward self-determination, full independence has yet to be achieved.
There is growing interest in independence among Greenland’s population, especially as the island’s natural resources offer potential economic opportunities. However, economic dependence on Denmark remains a significant barrier to complete sovereignty.
New Caledonia
New Caledonia is a French territory located in the South Pacific. It was colonized by France in the 19th century and remains a special collectivity of France today.
The indigenous Kanak people have long sought independence, and the 1998 Nouméa Accord provided a framework for gradual autonomy and eventual referendums on independence.
Three referendums have been held since 2018, with the most recent in 2021 resulting in a majority vote to remain part of France.
However, the last referendum was boycotted by many pro-independence groups, calling into question its legitimacy. Despite these efforts and political evolution, New Caledonia remains under French control and has never been an independent nation.
Bermuda
Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It has been under British rule since 1684 and remains one of the most populous remaining overseas territories.
Although Bermuda has internal self-government, the United Kingdom is responsible for its defense and foreign relations.
Independence movements have existed, particularly in the 20th century, but a 1995 referendum resulted in a majority vote against independence. Bermuda has never been an independent country, and its political and economic ties to the UK remain strong.
French Polynesia
French Polynesia, a collection of islands in the South Pacific, is another French overseas collectivity that has never achieved independence. Despite a growing autonomy and a distinct Polynesian identity, it remains under French sovereignty.
Independence movements exist, most notably led by political leaders such as Oscar Temaru, but the economy’s reliance on French financial support has complicated the push for full sovereignty.
French Polynesia was added to the United Nations list of non-self-governing territories in 2013, reaffirming its colonial status in the eyes of international law.
French Guiana
French Guiana is an overseas department of France located in South America. It has been under French control since the 17th century and was officially made a department in 1946.
Unlike many other colonies that gained independence, French Guiana remains fully integrated into France’s political and administrative system. It is represented in the French Parliament, uses the euro, and follows French laws.
Despite some local movements advocating for autonomy or independence, most residents support remaining part of France due to economic dependence and social services provided by the French government. It has never been independent.
