The Republic of Molossia is proud to announce the recognition of the sovereignty of of the island Forvik. Forvik, formerly known as Forewick Holm, is a tiny island in the Shetland Islands group, north of Scotland. It's owner, Stuart Hill, has declared Forvik to be a crown dependency of Britain, much like the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. He plans on issuing his own stamps and currency - the Gulde - as well as raising his own flag, of course.
Mr. Hill traces his sovereignty claim to a 15th century dowry arrangement between Norwegian King Christian and King James III of Scotland, when the Shetland Islands were essentially pawned to King James. In 1669 King Charles II re-confirmed Shetland's status at the time of the pawning, meaning the islands remained directly answerable to the crown - represented today by the Queen. Because of this history, the Shetland Islands, and Forvik in particular, owe only direct allegiance to the Queen, and are not otherwise subject to British rule. This means no VAT, no other taxes and no membership in the EU.
As a sovereignty movement not unlike most micronations (but with perhaps a bit more history), the Republic of Molossia extends its full support to Mr. Hill and the new Crown Dependency of Forvik. We wish them all the best in their quest for sovereignty and success in all their endeavors.
Visit Forvik's website here.
Forvik Flag
Forvik