Question

Which phrase in this statement of goals could be used by the United Nations to justify support for the independence movement of an ethnic or religious minority? A. “encouraging respect for human rights” B. “encouraging respect . . . for fundamental freedoms” C. “in conformity with the principles of justice and international law” D. “the principle of . . . self-determination of peoples”

Short answer

D. 'the principle of . . . self-determination of peoples'

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Question

Identify the key terms in the question. The United Nations may support the independence movement of an ethnic or religious minority based on certain principles.

Analyze the Options

Read each option carefully to see which one aligns with the idea of supporting the independence of ethnic or religious minorities.

Interpret the Options

Evaluate each option to understand its meaning and how it relates to supporting independence:- Option A: Respect for human rights could be broad and not specifically relate to independence.- Option B: Fundamental freedoms could also be broad and more general.- Option C: Justice and international law might support independence if it aligns with legal principles but focuses more on legality.- Option D: Self-determination explicitly supports the idea of independence, as it refers to peoples' right to choose their own sovereignty and international political status.

Choose the Best Option

Based on the analysis, the phrase that most directly supports an independence movement is 'the principle of self-determination of peoples.' This is because it specifically mentions the right of peoples to determine their own political status.

Key concepts

United Nations principles

The United Nations (UN) is built on several fundamental principles that guide its operations and decisions. Key principles include: maintaining international peace and security, developing friendly relations among nations, achieving international collaboration, and promoting human rights.
These principles are outlined in the UN Charter.
One of the cornerstones is the principle of self-determination, meaning that all peoples have the right to freely determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development.
This principle is crucial in supporting independence movements, particularly for ethnic or religious minorities seeking autonomy or separation from a larger political entity.
The UN operates based on the belief that respecting these rights contributes to global peace and stability.

Independence movements

Independence movements are efforts by a group of people, often a minority, to gain political independence and autonomy.
The motivations for these movements can vary, including cultural preservation, historical grievances, economic disparities, and the desire for political representation.
These movements are sometimes peaceful and sometimes involve conflict.
The principle of self-determination is often a rallying cry, reflecting a group's right to govern themselves without external interference.
Historical examples include India's independence from British rule, the creation of South Sudan, and the ongoing Catalonia independence movement in Spain.
The UN can support these movements through diplomacy, peacekeeping missions, and providing platforms for negotiations.

Ethnic and religious minority rights

Ethnic and religious minorities are groups distinguished by their cultural, religious, or ethnic differences from the majority population.
Protecting the rights of these minorities is essential for maintaining peace and preventing conflicts.
The UN promotes minority rights through various declarations and conventions, such as the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities.
These rights include the ability to practice their culture, use their language, practice their religion, and participate in public life.
In many cases, oppression or neglect of these rights can lead to demands for greater autonomy or independence.
By supporting minority rights, the UN seeks to ensure that all groups are treated equitably and can coexist peacefully.