itsemääräänmisoikeuden

Itsemääräämisoikeus, often translated as self-determination, is a fundamental principle in international law that grants all peoples the right to freely determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development. This principle is enshrined in the United Nations Charter and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

The concept of self-determination emerged prominently after World War I and gained further momentum with the decolonization movements of the 20th century. It asserts that a people, defined by shared language, culture, ethnicity, or historical experience, has the right to choose its own form of government and to be free from external domination or interference. This can manifest in various ways, including the establishment of an independent state, integration with another state, or a free association with a sovereign state.

While the right to self-determination is widely recognized, its practical application can be complex. Debates often arise concerning the precise definition of "a people" and the circumstances under which self-determination can be exercised, particularly when it involves secession from an existing state. International law generally favors the territorial integrity of existing states, creating a tension between these two principles. Nevertheless, self-determination remains a cornerstone of the international legal order, promoting human rights and fostering global peace and stability.