Linguistic Discrimination as grounds for Remedial Secession: The cases of Québec and Abkhazia

This thesis explores the concept of linguistic secession and its implications within the framework of international law, focusing on the case studies of Québec and Abkhazia. Through a detailed examination of historical contexts, it highlights how linguistic identity can fuel secessionist movements and evaluates the extent to which linguistic discrimination can justify claims for independence. By analysing legal doctrines and international treaties, the study assesses the applicability of remedial secession as a response to linguistic subjugation. The findings suggest that while language plays a pivotal role in shaping national identity, the legitimacy of secession based on linguistic grounds remains contentious. The research underscores the importance of ensuring that internal self-determination is properly implemented and the need of protecting linguistic rights within existing state structures, offering insights into the evolving nature of self-determination in the global legal...Show moreThis thesis explores the concept of linguistic secession and its implications within the framework of international law, focusing on the case studies of Québec and Abkhazia. Through a detailed examination of historical contexts, it highlights how linguistic identity can fuel secessionist movements and evaluates the extent to which linguistic discrimination can justify claims for independence. By analysing legal doctrines and international treaties, the study assesses the applicability of remedial secession as a response to linguistic subjugation. The findings suggest that while language plays a pivotal role in shaping national identity, the legitimacy of secession based on linguistic grounds remains contentious. The research underscores the importance of ensuring that internal self-determination is properly implemented and the need of protecting linguistic rights within existing state structures, offering insights into the evolving nature of self-determination in the global legal landscape.Show less

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Linguistic Discrimination as grounds for Remedial Secession: The cases of Québec and Abkhazia