The Azores Liberation Front, more commonly known as the FLA (Portuguese: Frente de Libertação dos Açores) is a right-wing paramilitary organization with the goal of forceful independence of the Azores, appearing right after the Carnation Revolution and whose actions included violent attacks on political opponents in ...

In 2026, the movement for full independence in the Azores remains a marginal political force rather than a mainstream ambition. While there is a strong sense of "Azorean identity" and a history of separatist sentiment (most notably during the 1970s via the FLA), the vast majority of the population currently favors enhanced regional autonomy within the Portuguese Republic rather than total secession. The Azores already function as an Autonomous Region with its own government, budget, and legislative assembly, allowing it to manage local affairs such as health, education, and the environment. Recent political discourse in 2026 has focused on "institutional affirmation"—strengthening the region's financial powers and leveraging its strategic Atlantic position—rather than independence. The local government continues to work closely with both Lisbon and the European Union, as the islands rely heavily on EU structural funds and national defense. Consequently, while pride in their "insular" culture is high, the practical economic and political benefits of remaining part of Portugal currently outweigh the desire for a separate state.