SEPARATISM AND TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY: THE CONFLICT BETWEEN THE PRINCIPLES OF TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY AND THE RIGHT TO SELFDETERMINATION

Abstract

This article examines the conflict between the principles of territorial integrity and the right to self-determination, analyzing their legal foundations and practical application in international relations. Specifically, it considers cases of separatist movements in Kosovo, Catalonia, Mali, South Ossetia, Abkhazia, the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), and the Luhansk People’s Republic (LPR). The consequences of these movements for state integrity are studied. The aim of the article is to explore the features of the dilemma between the principle of territorial integrity and the right to self-determination in connection with the rise of separatist movements and the need to avoid destructive consequences for states and the established world order. This goal involves solving a range of specific tasks, namely: outlining the legal foundations of the principle of territorial integrity and the right to selfdetermination in international law, particularly in the context of the UN Charter; examining specific examples of separatist movements, analyzing their impact on territorial integrity and international relations; and emphasizing the importance of maintaining state territorial integrity for international peace and stability. Separatism, which abuses the right to self-determination, poses a serious threat to international stability and the peaceful coexistence of states. The protection of the right to self-determination of nations involves avoiding the use of violence and preserving the territorial integrity of sovereign states. Separatist movements that lead to the destruction of states and armed conflicts contradict the principles of international law and can cause serious consequences for interstate relations. Therefore, it is crucial that any expressions of national self-determination occur through peaceful means and under the condition of preserving the territorial integrity of states and adhering to the principle of democratic decision-making.