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Self-determination: Principle of Action or Impracticable Charter


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Why the Initiative of Self-determination?

The Latin phrase ‘ius cogens’ (meaning ‘compelling law’) is a fundamental principle of international law that is accepted as a norm by all member states of the United Nations (UN) and cannot be suppressed by any power.

The principle of self-determination is a charter of the UN that states that a people, community, or nation has the right to choose its political identity, form of government, the exercise of sovereignty, and independent external relations with no interference. 

The UN is charged with the burden of interpreting the charter’s principle. As such the principle of self-determination is one of those compelling laws.

Why the Initiative of Self-determination?

It was a response to curb the authoritarianism of the era and enthrone equality, liberty, and freedom. The idea began with the American and French revolutions in the 18th century. Shortly after WWI, Woodrow Wilson conceived the idea of self-determination as a roadmap for redrawing European and world maps and putting in place a new understanding and a just world. Then after WWII, it became a charter of the UN and a legal right under international law. Ever since its adoption by the UN, it saw the decolonization of countries formerly held under dominion by European nations and latterly, the independence of the colonies.

Today, the principle is applied and interpreted by groups fighting or struggling within a state for autonomy or independence for reasons of consequences. In this age, there are hundreds of nations, groups, and people seeking autonomy or independence. One can ask: What is the role of the UN in those matters? Is self-determination a principle of action or just an impractical charter?

UN should do more. It should be proactive in dealing with nations or people crying for freedom or seeking autonomy. They should be listened to and understood. I think it will make for a better and more peaceful world. It may even help curtail the rate of migrations all over the world and reduce the power and control of despots. 

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