This article traces the evolution of the concept of self-determination from the end of World War I, through the era of decolonization, to the present day when it has become embedded in the human rights framework and, in limited circumstances, is used to justify secession. Various national and international cases are examined in analyzing the jurisprudence of self-determination, as well as the new European standards for State recognition after secession. The concept of autonomy is also examined as possibly providing a solution for disaffected minority groups within a greater territorial unit. The article then applies the self-determination and autonomy frameworks to Tibet and examines possible solutions for assessing Tibet’s international status.

Evolving Concepts of Self- Determination and Autonomy in International Law
  Ⅰ.Introduction: Scope of the Article
  Ⅱ. Secession as a Legal Concept
  Ⅲ. TheHuman Rights Framework: Self-Determination and Secession
  Ⅳ. Court CasesDiscussing Self-Determination or Secession
  Ⅴ. The European Standards for State Recognition After Secession
  Ⅵ. Is There a Right of Autonomywithin aGreater Territorial Unit for Peoples?
  Ⅶ. Application of International LawStandards to Tibet
  Ⅷ. Conclusion

• Valerie Epps(Law and Director of the International Law Concentration, Suffolk University Law School, Boston)