Is self-determination a human right?

[dimpy.handa]

The oppression and abuse of native peoples by colonial powers has lead to claims for reparations. The native American Cree population in Quebec is seeking monetary compensation for the destruction of forest land that was cleared to make way for a Hydro-Electric Dam. In Africa European colonists exploited the mineral resources such as copper and diamonds. Land was effectively stolen from Native peoples; Self-determination and independence is recognition of the fact that they were unfairly treated and their proprietary rights abused. The recognition of minority rights protects cultural identities that risk being diluted. The activities of terrorist groups should not undermine the political agendas of nationalist parties and the protests of minority groups. The violence is testament to the emotive nature of nationalism

 

[dimpy.handa]

After World War II, states enshrined the right to self-determination in the UN Charter. This right had some success in the colonial context, though in many twentieth century cases the shifting of boundaries was bloody and even peaceful de-colonization did not necessarily follow the boundaries of ethnic and linguistic group settlement, leading to conflict and civil wars.

 

[swatiraohnlu]

To ensure their own right of self-determination, people must hold in their grasp the right to decide on laws and policies of their country. This is why the ancient Greeks created the democratic system.

 

[dimpy.handa]

I consider the origin of both the right of self-determination and the right to freedom to be the same thing.
For example, slaves who worked at mines were forced to labor strenuously in dangerous underground shafts. But quite often a slave would supervise these mining slaves. A slave who was entrusted by the master with the management of the mine would rule over many slaves and earn a high income. To do business with the mine, even a citizen had to please the manager-slave. Athens was a commercial metropolis and also one of the centers of world trade and businesses and trades thrived there. In many cases, a slave was appointed to manage the businesses and trades. Such slaves would control many other slaves and enjoy good wages. So more than a few slaves were richer than ordinary citizens and ruled over numerous underlings.