On the International Law Issues of Crimean Public Investment in Russia

Abstract

On March 16, 2014, Crimea held a referendum to leave Ukraine as part of the Russian Federation. The referendum is a legal procedure used by the people of a region when applying the principle of national self-determination, while the public investment in Crimea involves national sovereignty and territorial integrity. So, when the principle of national self-determination and territorial integrity conflict, does the referendum comply with international law and be recognized? Crimea and public investment in Russia are the case of "foreign self-determination". This paper analyzes the applicable conditions of "foreign self-determination" and the situation of the Crimean people's exercise of the right of national self-determination, and makes specific judgments on the legitimacy of Crimea and public investment in Russia.