4. Self-Determination

4.1. Self-determination - United Nations Definition

Self-determination is the right of a group to freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development. Self-government is codified under Article 4, United National Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People, which states: 

Indigenous peoples, in exercising their right to self-determination, have the right to autonomy or self-government in matters relating to their internal and local affairs, as well as ways and means for financing their autonomous functions. 

The right to self-determination is contained in Article 1 of both the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Article 1 of both Covenants states: 

  1. All peoples have the right of self-determination. By virtue of that right they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development. 

  1. All peoples may, for their own ends, freely dispose of their natural wealth and resources without prejudice to any obligations arising out of international economic co-operation, based upon the principle of mutual benefit, and international law. In no case may a people be deprived of its own means of subsistence. 

  1. The States Parties to the present Covenant, including those having responsibility for the administration of Non-Self-Governing and Trust Territories, shall promote the realization of the right of self-determination, and shall respect that right, in conformity with the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations. 

 

The right to self-determination is a right of 'peoples' rather than of individuals.