SELF-DETERMINATION: PEOPLE'S WILL OR STRATEGIC INTEREST?

Abstract

Self-determination is an international norm which has developed relatively recently. It is an important basis for human rights and democracy, having greatly contributed to ending colonialism and apartheid. One striking aspect of this norm is that its interpretation and application are extremely diverse, and have evolved over time, intertwining international politics and law. In other words, the concept is multi-faceted and contains a significant degree of ambiguity, leading to a tendency of each actor to interpret and utilize it for their own interests. 1