Gibraltar : British we are : British we stay! : analyzing self-determination discourse among colonized peoples in the British Empire’s last European colony (1993-2022)

Abstract

This thesis develops an understanding of the right of self-determination from the perspective of a colonized, non-self-governing people. Particularly, the subject of this investigation is the people of Gibraltar. Using Critical Discourse Analysis theory, this study deconstructs a sampling of Gibraltarian political discourse to examine how the people conceptualize self-determination as a human right and apply their definitional understanding to local conflict. The findings of this research conclude that the Gibraltarians recognize their belief in self-determination as a core identity and behavioral marker which postulates necessary consequences to the Gibraltar Question. In agreement with the assumptions and discoveries provided in the research, this thesis emphasizes the need for scholars to consider the diverse role of linguo-political constructs in conflicts and underscores the paramount inclusion of indigenous perspectives in conflict analyses and intervention plans.