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Byline: IRVIN STUDIN NATIONAL UNITY The rise of the 'Scottish question' is an exercise in reverse colonialism: The Brits are now turning to Canada for sober lessons in how to [...]

THE Palestinian Authority's request for full United Nations membership has put hope for any two-state solution under increasing pressure. The need for reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians has never been [...]

The hospitalization of Russian Pres Boris Yeltsin may aggravate the growing public unrest in the country due to distressing events such as the murder of politician Galina Starovoitova and the corruption in the Federal Security Service. Moreover, Yeltsin's ability to lead and the authority of his government may be questioned by his opponents who are eager to replace him or topple his government. However, Russian citizens should move to uphold their right in choosing the leaders of their country by exercising the power of a nationwide ballot which they alone can make.

The Taiwanese search for identity has created political and social problems. Many Taiwanese natives marrying mainland-born citizens are being pressured to choose between the reunification-driven Beijing or Taiwan. Arguments are expected to escalate as Taiwan approaches the presidential and legislative elections, which will start in Dec. 1995. Countries such as the US which are negotiating trade and security interests in Asia will also have to face the Taiwanese imbroglio.

There is still considerable confusion about the issue of an ethnic group's right to national self-determination. Some observers believe that nations do have an inherent right to statehood, but remain cautious about the circumstances in which this right can be exercised. In many cases, exercising statehood still brings bitter conflict. Furthermore, independent statehood is not necessarily the only outcome of national self-determination.