In recent days, The Guardian and the BBC have reported on claims emerging from the slowly growing autonomist movement in Corfu that the Greek central government neglects the island. Representatives from civil society and the business world have come together under the leadership of property developer Harry Tsoukalas to channel their "dissatisfaction" and have said that they may field pro-autonomy candidates in the next local elections, in two years' time.

Tsoukalas believes Corfu, one of the top tourist destinations in Greece, contributes far more to the Greek economy than it gets back from central government. He cites the poor state of historical monuments, the lack of investment in Corfu's old town (despite being declared a World Heritage site), and the poor quality of public services as examples of the Greek Government's neglect. "They've been taking the golden eggs but they are forgetting to feed the goose," The Guardian reports Tsoukalas as saying.

Greece is highly centralized and has a polarized two-party system. The party currently in power, New Democracy, and the Panhellenic Socialist Movement collectively hold eighty percent of seats in parliament. The country has never been keen to recognize its minorities, whether linguistic, ethnic or political.

Historically, Corfu has not always been closely tied to Greece. Before being ceded by Great Britain to Athens in 1864 the island had variously been under French, Russian and British rule.

Furhter information:

• The Guardian: 'Neglect and disrepair' leads Corfu dissidents to seek split from Greece
• BBC: Pressure for Corfu autonomy grows