The Principality of Sealand, and Its Case for Sovereign Recognition

Authors

Andrew H.E. Lyon

Abstract

Andrew H. E. Lyon argues for the recognition of the Principality of Sealand as a nation proper. His argument for such recognition extends beyond Sealand's future. The international legal community's acceptance of the changing world and the necessity of flexible ideologies should grow alongside our changing planet. Complaints disfavoring Sealand's statehood claims range from its man-made nature, its lack of a recognizable citizenry, and England's de jure ownership of the territorial sea in which Sealand resides. These complaints are backed by scholarship, and neighboring nations allege that various judicial opinions support their stance. Lyon agues, however, that recognition of Sealand's sovereignty will inevitably come with the changing landscape of international law. This recognition could lead to future success for other man-made nations. The argument for Sealand is an argument for the adaptation of international legal norms, and the evolving international conception of 'sovereignty.'

Recommended Citation

Andrew H. Lyon, The Principality of Sealand, and Its Case for Sovereign Recognition, 29 Emory Int'l L. Rev. 637 (2015).
Available at: https://scholarlycommons.law.emory.edu/eilr/vol29/iss3/4