Latest Articles & News

New Zealand's century-long journey to independence

New Zealand gradually became independent of the UK in a slow and gradual manner - one tiny step after another until one day they basically realised they were an independent nation. So much so that they do not have an independence day, because no one really knows when it was. This century-long journey to independence might seem rather rapid in comparison with Scotland, where even establishing a Parliament took longer. But there are interesting lessons to learn. 

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Independence lessons for Scotland from Jamaica

Clearly, there are no direct comparisons between the way Jamaica became part of the British Empire and Scotland. Many British businesses and individuals participated in the slave trade and huge profits were brought back. Scotland's participation in that trade has only recently begun to be acknowledged . Nevertheless, Scotland has strong links to Jamaica - both positive and negative. It is important to recognise these.  

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Why Norway Chose to Become an Independent Country - Lessons for Independent Scotland

Norway, of course, is one of the richest countries on the planet -  in part due to its sovereign wealth fund which holds a share of the oil profits from Norwegian waters and stands at $1.3 trillion. It is also one of the most egalitarian, with a strong sense of social cohesion. Norway celebrates its national day on May 17, as a community event, with picnics, sports and festivities.

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Six things Tommy Sheppard gets wrong about the proposed Citizens’ Convention

Article written by Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp

I feel the need to respond to the article in The National by Tommy Sheppard entitled, ‘We must take this step to independence before a citizens' convention’. The article focuses on Tommy’s response to Believe in Scotland’s report, ‘The Scottish Citizens’ Convention’ CREATING A BETTER SCOTLAND’.

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