1. Introducing Partially Independent Nation Territories

As self-determination movements assert themselves throughout the world in places as diverse as Catalonia, Gilgit-Baltistan, Hong Kong, Kashmir, New Caledonia, the Palestinian Territories, Puerto Rico, Scotland, Xinjiang, as well as a multitude of other areas across the globe, it is worth inquiring about the benefits of autonomy arrangements that have distinct minority populations. The aim of this book is to examine whether partially independent territories in Northern Europe have managed to develop regional nation building and have enhanced the quality of government. Northern Europe provides an exceptional testing ground for examining such issues. Because it is characterized by high standards of living, liberal democracy, and a certain cultural resemblance, such factors are held relatively constant as compared to other parts of the globe so that quality of governance issues can better be examined.