This paper argues the case for the right of secession in Western democracies. I suggest that the winners gain more than the losers may lose. Indeed, the external effects of secession may well be positive. However, the political economy of secession is highly problematic. Ideally, the rules for secession should be set at the international level but international organizations have a vested interest in preventing secession. (+)

Political accountability is a necessary condition for good governance. In simple terms, there is political accountability when a citizen can reward with re-election an incumbent that provides an efficient use of public funds. Similarly, political accountability exists when a citizen can punish by ousting from power an unsatisfactory incumbent. It is crucial to note that political accountability is the main incentive that a government has to fulfil the needs and demands of the population. (+)