The Perils of Secession Mania

There have recently been secessionist votes in two different areas--Kurdistan and Catalonia--which while different threaten to upset international politics. In Iraq, the possible break up of the country would bring the collapse of the American efforts since 2003. In Spain the possibility of real war in western Europe should concern everybody.

The question of nationality and statehood is complicated. It depends on the issues. If the questions are policy matters that could be resolved peacefully, then secessionism is not justified. Going to war just on emotion-- like the CSA or Biafra-- is never justified.