Independence movements
Should regions be able to vote to leave?
Independence movements ask whether a region with its own identity should have the right to leave a country. Supporters say that if a people want self-government, they should be able to decide by vote, as a matter of self-determination. Opponents say states are bound by shared history, that secession harms those who stay and those who leave, and that a right to leave could be used to break up any country.
On the 12 Axes the statement moves structure. Backing a right to vote on independence points toward the local end, because it values regional self-rule over national unity. Opposing it leans toward the central end. Culture can also play a part, since many movements are based on language or national identity. The issue cuts across left and right. Nationalists on the right may defend the unity of the state, while others on the right back regional freedom. On the left, some support self-determination and some prefer unity across borders.
What each side argues
Right to vote
- Supporters argue that peoples have a right to decide their own future through a democratic vote.
- Supporters say a region that feels unheard may do better running its own affairs.
- Supporters point out that allowing a vote is more peaceful than forcing a region to stay.
Keep the country whole
- Opponents argue that countries are shared projects and should not be split by one region's vote.
- Opponents say independence can bring economic disruption and uncertainty for everyone involved.
- Opponents worry that a right to leave encourages repeated votes and instability.
The statement on independence movements
- Regions should have the right to vote on becoming independent countries.Agreeing moves you toward Local
What politicians have said and done
Pedro SánchezCatalan independence leaders received an amnesty from him in a deal for their votes at his 2023 investiture.Source: theguardian.com
John SwinneyBacks independence for Scotland, and says a new referendum would be on the path if the SNP wins a majority.Source: snp.org- John SwinneyWants an independent Scotland to rejoin the European Union, and argues Brexit has hurt Scotland.Source: snp.org
At each end of Structure
People whose overall profile leans furthest each way on the axis this issue moves most. A lean on the axis is not a stance on this exact issue.
More structure issues
Independence movements: questions
What is self-determination?
It is the idea that a people should be able to decide their own political status and government. Supporters of independence use it to argue for a vote. Opponents say it must be balanced against the unity of existing states and the rights of everyone living there.
Is supporting independence left or right wing?
It crosses the divide. Independence movements have had both left and right wing support, and opponents come from both sides as well. The core question is about identity and self-rule more than about economic policy.
Who decides whether a region can leave?
That depends on the country. Some constitutions allow it under set conditions, some forbid it, and others are unclear. Disputes often turn on whether the region alone votes or the whole country does, and what majority is needed.