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Description
In this era of post colonialism, many developing nations in the world have been plagued with ethnic conflict, which most often, stems from the legacy of colonialism and the establishment of arbitrary colonial borders in Africa, Asia and elsewhere. This thesis explores the nature of secessionist ideology and attempts to examine the factors that lead to the success and failures of secessionist movements in developing nations. I critically analyze the significant role the international political system plays in the process of secessionism. I argue religion plays an important factor in determining which secessionist movements succeed and which ones do not. The intention of this thesis is to use qualitative methods to investigate the role of religion, its impact on secessionist movements and its relations with the global political system. Somaliland, Eritrea, South Sudan and Ogaden are used as case studies to illustrate why religion is a factor in the success and failures of secessionist movements. How was Eritrea and South Sudan able to succeed in gaining independence while Ogaden and Somaliland did not, despite the historical, political, socio-economic and regional similarities? I employ Edward Said's theory of orientalism to analyze the contemporary relationship between Western nations and non-Western nations, and explain why non-Muslim secessionist movements are more likely to succeed due to the Western led global political system. KEYWORDS: Secession, ethnic nationalism, colonialism, self-determination, conflict, sovereignty, legitimacy, recognition, imperialism, orientalism, religion, international political system, international law, developing nations, Eritrea, Somaliland, South Sudan, ICC, Darfur, Ogaden,
