The Right to Self-Determination of Peoples

The principle of self-determination of peoples is enshrined in Articles 1(2), 55, and 76 of the United Nations Charter. Over time, this principle has evolved into a fundamental human right, formally recognized for all peoples through Article 1 of the two 1966 International Covenants on civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights:

“All peoples have the right of self-determination. By virtue of that right, they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development.”
(…) The States Parties to the present Covenant shall promote and respect this right, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations.

This right is also affirmed by other international legal and political instruments, including:

  • The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Art. 20)

  • The Helsinki Final Act (Principle VIII)

  • The UN Declaration on the Right to Development (1986)

  • The Universal Declaration of the Rights of Peoples – Algiers Charter (1976)

The Role of the CNU

The CNU Confederation, together with its Confederated Members and all those pursuing the path of self-determination, provides international legal tools to support informed and legitimate decisions.

At the end of their self-determination process, each Confederated Member receives official identification documents, while communities are authorized to use the CNU emblem and symbols on their official records. This process is formalized through public legal acts and Hague Convention apostilles, ensuring full international recognition.

These documents are not kept within the Confederation: they are formally transmitted to the competent authorities of all States party to the Hague Convention, with the purpose of promoting the principles of freedom, dignity, self-determination, and human well-being—even at the institutional level.

Thanks to this pathway, many self-determined communities have seen their international legal status acknowledged, enabling them to contribute actively to the social and economic development of their local territories. In doing so, they not only improve their own conditions but also strengthen the civic and human fabric of territorial States with which they share space and values.

Towards a New Geopolitical Paradigm

We are witnessing the emergence of a new geopolitical paradigm. Only through structured, thoughtful, and inclusive dialogue can States move toward a more mature and cooperative vision—capable of recognizing emerging autonomies as a genuine economic, social, and cultural resource for the common good of humanity.