The right of peoples to self-determination is protected in which articles?

• A. Art 1 of the ICCPR and ICESCR
• B. Art 21(3) UDHR
• C. Art 4 UDHR
• D. Art 26

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is the right of peoples to self-determination. In treaty law, this right is stated in Article 1 of both the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The articles declare that all peoples have the right to self-determination, and by that right they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social, and cultural development. This emphasis on collective self-determination underpins decolonization and the ability of peoples to choose their own governance and development path.

The other options don’t protect self-determination: Article 21(3) UDHR concerns the will of the people in choosing governments and conducting elections; Article 4 UDHR prohibits slavery; Article 26 UDHR concerns the right to education.