Saint Martin is not an independent country, and it has never declared independence. The island is divided between France and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and both sides are still governed by their respective countries.
Northern Side – Saint-Martin (French side)
- Status: Overseas Collectivity of France
- Date of current status: 15 July 2007
(It separated administratively from Guadeloupe and became a separate overseas collectivity) - Head of State: President of France
- Local Government: Territorial Council of Saint-Martin
Not independent — France controls foreign affairs, defense, and currency (Euro).
Southern Side – Sint Maarten (Dutch side)
- Status: Constituent Country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands
- Date of current status: 10 October 2010
(Gained “country” status after the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles) - Head of State: King of the Netherlands (represented by a Governor)
- Local Government: Has its own Prime Minister and Parliament
Not independent — Part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; shares responsibilities in foreign affairs and defense.
Summary
Side | Sovereign State | Independence Status |
---|---|---|
Saint-Martin | France | Not independent |
Sint Maarten | Netherlands | Not independent |