People of the Islands
While there are some 40 plus cays that make up the Turks & Caicos Islands, only eight of them are inhabited by people. The Turks & Caicos natives are called “Belongers” or “Turks Islanders” and are either descendants from African slaves who were originally brought over to grow cotton on the island of Providenciales or have immigrated here from the Bahamas back in the salt raking days. The local population mixes harmoniously with a large expatriate community of British, American, French, Canadian, Haitians, Dominicans and Scandinavians, giving the islands an international influence and unique culture.
The people here – both Expats and Belongers –are relaxed and friendly and generally operate on “island” time, resulting in a low-key, slow-paced environment.
Turks & Caicos follows British Common Law. A queen-appointed governor holds executive power and presides over an Executive Council and a Premier heads the local government, which consists of several other ministers and a legislative council that can enact satutes. The Judicial Branch is headed by a Chief Justice, a Chief Magistrate, and three Deputy Magistrates.
