About Faroes

The Faroe Islands form a remote North Atlantic archipelago, set between the Norwegian Sea and the open ocean, roughly midway between Great Britain and Iceland. Although small in population, the islands hold a distinct place within the Kingdom of Denmark, standing alongside Denmark proper and Greenland as one of its three constituent countries.

Since 1948, the Faroes have enjoyed a high degree of self‑government. Over time, the Faroese authorities have taken responsibility for most domestic matters, while areas such as defence and foreign affairs continue to fall under Danish jurisdiction. This modern arrangement sits on a long and complex shared history: the islands first became politically linked to Denmark in 1380, when Norway entered the Kalmar Union with Denmark and Sweden. Danish influence gradually strengthened in the centuries that followed, until the formal end of the union in 1814.

Today, the Faroe Islands maintain their own cultural identity, political institutions and economic priorities, while remaining part of the wider Danish realm. They also participate in Nordic cooperation, holding two seats on the Nordic Council as part of the Danish delegation.

To view a full list of Faroe Islands stamp products, click here