Miquelon

Île Miquelon is the southern of the two principal islands that form the French overseas collectivity of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. Located in the western Atlantic off the coast of Newfoundland and near the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, it lies together with Île Saint-Pierre and Langlade Island in the archipelago. The commune of Miquelon-Langlade covers Miquelon Island and Langlade.

The island is low-lying and rocky, with sheltered bays and small farms along the coast. The climate is maritime, characterized by cool summers, cold winters, strong winds, and frequent fog. The terrain and shoreline support a traditional fishing-oriented lifestyle.

Population distribution is uneven, with most residents living on Saint-Pierre Island; Miquelon has a smaller community centered around the village of Miquelon. Economic activity on the island is closely tied to fishing, fish processing, and public services, with modest opportunities in tourism.

Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is a French overseas collectivity. Local government operates under a Territorial Council, and the two main communes are Saint-Pierre and Miquelon-Langlade, which includes Langlade. The territory uses the euro, and French is the official language. It sends one deputy to the National Assembly and one senator to the Senate.

Economically, fishing and related industries dominate, supplemented by services and a limited tourism sector. The culture reflects French heritage infused with Atlantic maritime traditions, and local customs and cuisine emphasize seafood and island life.

Historically, Île Miquelon was settled by French fishermen in the 17th century and became part of ongoing Franco-British territorial rivalry. It remained French after various arrangements and is today part of the French overseas collectivity, reorganized in the early 2000s under French law.