Topic: Determining the Legitimacy of Secession Movements and Obligations of Parent States
Country: Honduras
Delegate Name: Josh Hagemann
School: Kalamazoo Central High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Honduras position papers GLIMUN 2016 committees
A secession movement often holds much potential. An example of this is when thirteen British Colonies in North America seceded from the then most prominent empire, to form what would be the most powerful nation the world has ever seen. Quite a feat. Even Honduras has, at one point, been a movement with dreams of independence from a nation that did not benefit our people. Obviously, these secession movements yield much potential, and if they meet the requirements necessary to be a sovereign nation, then they should be granted that respect. In the way of any obligations of parent states, we should let these parent states do as is allowed within the limits of international law. Should these movements have independence, they should be also be treated as independent states, but through debate, we are willing to see what other options there are.
In the past, we have not been afraid to recognize states and movements that are deserving of recognition. These states include Palestine and Kosovo, both of which are, by definition, independent states. This has led to rather petty disputes that should have been avoided, but we feel that this is a moral issue, one that we must carefully consider. We have been, and still are, willing to stand up for what we believe is the right thing to do.
Members States of the United Nations have the capability to collectively do a great thing; give the world a chance. There are many pages in future history books that have yet to even be considered, and secession movements have the chance to be pen holders for the next era. They should be given that respect. A simple recognition of legitimacy is a powerful thing. Nations such as the United States, Russia, France, Mexico, and many more, which have seceded from a parent state or re-created their government to best fit their people know that potential nations should given a chance. So, a set of rules must be decided upon, factors must be considered, and through debate, we can go forward. Secession movements with the potential described, should be allowed to go forward as well.
