Gibraltar in international relations

This Bachelor thesis addresses the status of Gibraltar in international relations. The issue is examined in the context of the process of decolonization. I have concentrated primarily on the analysis of development and current position of this British Overseas Territory. The territory is significantly affected by a sovereignty dispute between Britain and Spain since the second half of the last century. The thesis presents a framework of the question of Gibraltar, which aims to the ability to decide if it is currently possible to consider the territory to be de facto decolonized. Theoretically, Gibraltar is still on the UN list of Non-Self-Governing Territories, i.e. subject to the decolonization process. From understanding the concept of decolonization, the analysis of the politico historical development of Gibraltar, putting the issue into framework of the UN and examining arguments of the relevant parties in connection with the territorial dispute I come to the conclusion that it is the persisting dispute which keeps the territory from being internationally recognized as decolonized. But - considering the right to self-determination a paramount principle of international law - it is paradoxical that not only did the Gibraltarians speak out in favour of the present status of their country, but they also contributed to shaping it, which implies that they currently do not consider themselves a residue of colonial rule.