Secessionist

A secessionist is an individual or group that seeks to withdraw a region or subnational entity from a larger political union to establish a separate state or to join another country. Secessionist movements may be political, cultural, or ideological in nature and can pursue strategies ranging from advocacy and lobbying to referendums, constitutional negotiations, or armed struggle.

The terms secessionist and separatist are often used interchangeably, but they emphasize different aspects. Secession stresses withdrawal from a union, whereas separatism can imply a preference for distinct status within a broader state as well as full independence.

Legal and political contexts shape the viability of secessionist aims. In many constitutions, secession is prohibited or requires complex amendments; elsewhere, governments may permit referendums or negotiations. International law recognizes the principle of self-determination in certain circumstances but does not provide a blanket right to secede in all cases, and recognition of secessionist movements is often a political decision.

Examples of secessionist activity span history and geography. Historical cases include attempts by the Confederate States to secede from the United States in the 1860s. Contemporary or ongoing movements have emerged in regions such as Catalonia and Scotland in Europe, and Eritrea and parts of West Africa in various periods. Outcomes range from peaceful negotiation and recognition to suppression or integration with broader state structures, and in some instances to ongoing conflict or denial of secessionist aims.

See also: self-determination, separatism, autonomy, referendum, constitutional law.