African Island Dreams of Joining Latin America
In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, lies the African island of Annobón. What started as a symbolic claim based on its colonial history is now gaining strength as a concrete proposal in a critical context.
### A history resurfacing from isolation
Annobón is a volcanic island of 17 square kilometers with around 2,000 inhabitants. Its current conditions are marked by isolation, extreme poverty, and tight government control. In 2022, the islanders made an unexpected request to Argentina. Since then, they have been engaging in discussions with Argentine diplomatic and academic sectors to explore the unlikely scenario of breaking away from Equatorial Guinea and establishing a formal relationship with Argentina. Despite being incorporated into the Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata in the late 18th century under Spanish dominion, there was never an effective integration.
### Between colonial heritage and seeking a way out
The representatives of the movement, as cited in media outlets, explain that their request is not solely based on symbolic issues. According to its main promoters, the proposal is a response to the island’s dire situation and aims to seek a better future. However, the proposal faces significant legal and geopolitical obstacles. Experts in international relations point out that accepting a territorial annexation would pose constitutional challenges and require complex negotiations with Equatorial Guinea. Nevertheless, the islanders remain determined in their quest to change their fate.
