This essay examines the accommodation of divided societies through constituent units, and concentrates on “legal geography” as a principle of organization in multi- or bi-ethnic federal states. It then considers the key concepts related thereto: regional demarcation and territorial alteration. Comparative legal studies show that divided societies can be governed through territorial demarcation and alteration. However, ethnic-based demarcation is currently under strain. Indeed, economic factors reduce the relevance of ethnic, linguistic and religious factors. The intersection of traditional and socioeconomic factors represents a challenge to ethnic-construed territorial identity, and implies a reassessment of the criteria presiding over political demarcation.

Accommodating Divided Societies Through Constituent Units? A Comparative Survey of Regional Demarcation and Territorial Alteration

NICOLINI, Matteo
2014-01-01

Abstract

This essay examines the accommodation of divided societies through constituent units, and concentrates on “legal geography” as a principle of organization in multi- or bi-ethnic federal states. It then considers the key concepts related thereto: regional demarcation and territorial alteration. Comparative legal studies show that divided societies can be governed through territorial demarcation and alteration. However, ethnic-based demarcation is currently under strain. Indeed, economic factors reduce the relevance of ethnic, linguistic and religious factors. The intersection of traditional and socioeconomic factors represents a challenge to ethnic-construed territorial identity, and implies a reassessment of the criteria presiding over political demarcation.
2014
9789963711284
divided societies; territorial demarcation; territorial alteration; territory; legal geography
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11562/899184
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