%0 Journal Article
%T A Constitutional Right to Secede? Basque Nationalism and the Spanish State
%J International studies perspectives
%D 2007
%A Roach, Steven C.
%V 8
%N 4
%P 446-460
%X This article analyzes the strategic parameters of a constitutional right to secede. It argues that these parameters help to qualify the right as a potentially effective alternative to either status quo symmetrical arrangements or a constitutional right to national territorial autonomy. To frame the right in this way is a little like decriminalizing drugs. If we legalize secession under certain conditions, we also eliminate much of the volatile tension underlying the demand for secession. Granted, it is possible that such a right might encourage the Basques to secede. However, this is precisely why we need to frame the right to secede in a highly restrictive manner, so that we can strengthen the accountability of this right under public law and redress the residual link between violence and the demand for secession.<p />
%G 
%I John Wiley and Sons
%@ 1528-3577
%U http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1528-3585.2007.00311.x