Self-determination is a fundamental yet complex principle in international law, granting peoples the right to determine their political status and pursue development freely. Rooted in political philosophy and nationalist thought, the concept gained legal recognition in the 20th century, especially through the UN Charter and human rights covenants. While decolonization shaped its modern legal framework—primarily recognizing the right of colonial territories to independence—contemporary interpretations distinguish between internal self-determination (e.g., autonomy, democratic governance) and external self-determination (e.g., secession). Today, international law remains cautious, generally permitting external self-determination only under exceptional conditions, such as colonial rule or severe repression, while supporting internal mechanisms within existing state borders.

• Legal Information Institute. (n.d.). Self-determination (international law). Cornell Law School. https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/self_determination_(international_law)
• Oxford Bibliographies – International Law: Self-Determination
  Cassese, A. (2013). Self-determination. In A. Paulus (Ed.), Oxford Bibliographies in International Law. Oxford University Press. https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com/display/document/obo-9780199743292/obo-9780199743292-0125.xml