Scottish Independence Advocates Seek International Recognition

Pro-independence civil initiatives in Scotland have taken action to have the country's right to self-determination recognized on the international stage, bypassing the UK government. Sara Margaret Salyers, founder of the SALVO movement and representative of the 'Liberation of Scotland' Committee, stated that their primary goal is to have Scotland recognized as 'a non-self-governing territory with the right to self-determination' at the international level. Salyers noted that the 2014 independence referendum was not a fair and binding referendum but rather a non-binding public opinion poll, stating

The referendum did not comply with international standards. Those with no permanent residence in the country, short-term residents, and second-home owners were able to vote. Moreover, there was no full international monitoring mechanism to ensure transparency.

. Despite these shortcomings, research has shown that the indigenous Scots predominantly voted in favor of independence, Salyers emphasized. The London government has categorically ruled out the possibility of a new referendum, Salyers said, adding that the movement is proceeding on two fronts: SALVO is working on re-establishing the constitution and sovereignty within the country, while the 'Liberation of Scotland' Committee is conducting a diplomatic campaign for international recognition. Recalling that Scotland was a sovereign state before the 1707 Act of Union, the activist emphasized that the issue of independence is directly subject to international law. Salyers stressed that their priority is to invalidate the UK government's threat to block Scotland's unilateral declaration of independence and prevent international recognition.