Jean-François Caron
Université libre de Bruxelles
The question of the political unity of multinational federations arises in a context where the accommodation of ethno-cultural minorities or historically disadvantaged groups is considered not only a moral norm, but a good strategy, since non-recognition appears more prejudicial to the stability of States. These groups tend to view themselves as nations within a larger State, and claim an inherent right to autonomy and self-determination. This can take the form of independence, or it can take the form of territorial autonomy within a larger State that allows them to maintain their distinct character.
As Will Kymlicka puts it: “The demands for governmental autonomy [coming from these groups] reflect a desire to weaken the bonds with the political community as a whole, and essentially to question its authority and even its continuation.” In fact, granting the right to self-government to these groups can have the effect of dividing sovereignty and citizenship in the State, which threatens the patriotic spirit among members of these groups towards the federal State. Thus it is not surprising to note that: “Democratic multinational States that recognize the right of autonomy of their minorities seem to be unstable (…)”. One need only look at the secessionist threats in Québec, Flanders, or Catalonia: strong political forces which tend, in varying degrees, to make the political future uncertain for Canada, Belgium and Spain.
