Alfred-Maurice de Zayas Quotes

Neither the right of self-determination nor the principle of territorial integrity is absolute.

Decolonization was not only just and consistent with the Charter; it was necessary to end violence.

Self-determination is an expression of the individual and collective right to democracy.

A violation of the right of self-determination gives rise to a legitimate human rights claim by individuals and groups and triggers State responsibility to make reparation.

Self-determination is now recognized as a principle of legitimacy underlying modern international law.

The bearers of the right of self-determination possess justiciable rights, not mere promises.

The right of self-determination must be implemented through specific measures.

All peoples have the right of self-determination.

Norms cannot be applied à la carte.

There is consensus among States, judges of international tribunals and professors of international law that self-determination is not only a principle but also a right that has achieved the status of jus cogens.

World peace and security are best served when States observe treaties in good faith.

There are multiple ways of looking at self-determination. One understanding of the right focuses on the legitimacy of choice, so that every people may choose the form of government that it deems appropriate to its culture and traditions. Another perspective focuses on the right of two or more peoples to unify into one single State.

In its essence, the right of self-determination means that individuals and peoples should be in control of their destinies and should be able to live out their identities, whether within the boundaries of existing States or through independence.

A government that compromises its competence to defend and protect the interests of the persons living under its jurisdiction betrays its raison d’être and loses its democratic legitimacy

Most States have enshrined in their Constitution and legislation the concept of ordre public