Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Geographical names index

These are the British English-language names and descriptive terms for sovereign countries, UK Crown Dependencies and UK Overseas Territories, as well as their citizens. ‘Sovereign’ means that they are independent states, recognised under international law. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) approved these names. The FCDO leads on geographical names for the UK government, working closely with the [Permanent Committee on Geographical Names](https://www.gov.uk/government/groups/the-permanent-committee-on-geographical-names). All UK government departments and other public bodies must use the approved country and territory names in these datasets. Using these names ensures consistency and clarity across public and internal communications, guidance and services. You can also view the Welsh language version of the geographical names index on [GOV.WALES: international place-names](https://www.gov.wales/bydtermcymru/international-place-names).