In 1964 Zanzibar Island merged with Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania. After changes in the Union constitution in 1977, many Zanzibaris consider the autonomous position to have been eroded and they strive for enhanced self-government. Violence has occurred on the island, also during election periods. Visits and contacts to Åland have taken place over time, discussing among others electoral laws and institutions, contacts between center and region as well as fiscal autonomy.
