Ab Gietelink on the right to self-determination and separation

In this episode, Paul Buitink talks to independent journalist Ab Gietelink. The reason for the conversation is the current war in Ukraine and the book "Tunnel Visions" written by Ab in which he describes how he believes peace can be realized in Ukraine.

Paul and Ab elaborate on the phenomenon of self-determination and separation/connection of regions and how this is currently (not) regulated in international law. Examples from the past and present are discussed, such as Crimea, the Donbas, Kosovo, Palestine, Catalonia and Texas.

The core of Ab's story is that we in the West are currently looking through colored glasses and applying double standards. According to him, in such situations, the local population should be known through referendums under the supervision of the UN. With the question whether they want self-determination, secession or even joining another nation.