Ascension Island - Demographics

Demographics

There is no indigenous or permanent population on the island, although around 880 people live there as of 2010: 696 from Saint Helena nicknamed the "Saints" (who are British citizens), 106 British citizens from Great Britain, 70 US citizens and 12 of other nationalities. RAF Ascension Island is made up of 17 staff.

There are five settlements:

• Georgetown (the main civilian settlement and capital of the island)
• Two Boats (a civilian village, with its school)
• Cat Hill (the United States' main base on the island)
• Traveller's Hill (Royal Air Force base)
• Wideawake Airfield (with the Royal Air Force station)

Additionally, there are some cottages on Green Mountain, occasionally occupied by visitors, and the Residency, the official residence of the Administrator.

In order to enter Ascension Island, people need the written permission of the Administrator. There is no permanent residence. A contract of employment is a requirement to stay on the island, though short term visits by tourists are possible with prior approval. The British government has asserted that there is no "right of abode" on Ascension Island. As the local newspaper The Islander reported at the time, it is an issue that was disputed by some former Council members and some of the long-time expatriate employees.