The world's working regional autonomies: an introduction and comparative analysis

In: Anthem Critical Studies

Abstract

Many countries are faced with ethnic conflict and the need to protect their national minorities. Regional territorial autonomy is a legal-political device to combine minority protection with internal self-determination in a regional framework, without changing the concerned state's boundaries. Applying this method, sustainable solutions to serious and protracted state-minority conflicts have been developed in about 60 regions within at least 22 states. While aiming for new partnerships between the central state and the regional community, territorial autonomy has met with varying degrees of success in different parts of the world. After a theoretical introduction to the political concept and scope of autonomy, the author guides the reader through the multifarious world of operating autonomy systems. 'Autonomies at work' in different continents are compared and contrasted, providing a holistic view of the subject. The author's functional analysis probes the main issues of territorial autonomy and its practical applications. Typical elements are worked out, factors behind autonomy's (un/)successful operations in diverse locations are investigated and perspectives of further development are highlighted. Given the importance of regional autonomy as a means of conflict resolution and minority protection, this timely work is indispensable not just for experts and decision-makers, but also for readers interested in the political structures that shape the world around them. (Anthem Press)