ABSTRACT

This chapter reveals independence and separatist movements presenting a much more daunting threat to the integration project initiated in the 1950s than has been recognized so far. It provides a succinct outline of the national, international and European rules and principles applicable to a regional independence/separatist scenario. Hereafter, extensive attention is given to the implications of a secessionist movement succeeding in its endeavour, distinguishing between the consequences for the region concerned, and for the rump state left behind. The chapter analyses the possible ramifications for the EU as a whole, and for European law and policy in particular. Public international law contains no blanket ban on the issuing of declarations of independence. Because of the 'extinguishing applicability' of European law to the region concerned, it is bound to be confronted with a host of economic, administrative and financial ramifications. In fact, a region's successful motion for independence will impact upon the Union quite noticeably.