Crown dependencies in an era of continuity and change

Abstract

Crown Dependencies (the Bailiwicks of Jersey and Guernsey and the Isle of Man) are sub-national island jurisdictions in the British Isles whose autonomy and sovereignty over internal matters is guaranteed by their long-standing relationship with the British Crown. This article examines the evolution of the Crown Dependencies during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, a time of considerable political and economic change that was largely driven by insular actors rather than imposed from the outside. It focuses on developments in the late Elizabethan period that were precipitated by Britain’s decision to leave the European Union, more commonly known as Brexit. In the immediate aftermath of Brexit, it appears that the Crown Dependencies will seek to preserve their existing relationship with the Crown and, by extension, the UK, with perhaps some minor reforms that enhance their autonomy in the international sphere. This approach, however, may have to change in the longer term as they grapple with exogenous forces and developments beyond their control.