What is Sovereignty?
Sovereignty is the ultimate source of political authority in a nation. It is the power to make fundamental decisions about how a country is governed and by whom.
In Scotland, unlike in England, sovereignty does not rest with Westminster, Holyrood, or the Crown. It rests with the people of Scotland. This is not political rhetoric—it is a constitutionally grounded principle with deep historical roots.
The Declaration of Arbroath (1320)
The Declaration of Arbroath established a principle that has defined Scottish constitutional thought for over 700 years: that kings and leaders serve at the will of the people, and can be removed if they fail to uphold that responsibility.
This was a revolutionary idea in 1320—and it remains the foundation of Scotland's claim to popular sovereignty today.
Claims of Right
Throughout history, Scotland has repeatedly asserted popular sovereignty through formal Claims of Right:
- 1689 — Established that monarchs ruled by consent, not divine right
- 1989 — Reaffirmed Scotland's right to determine its own constitutional future
Why This Matters Now
If sovereignty rests with the people of Scotland, then Scotland does not require permission from Westminster to determine its political future. The authority is inherent—not granted, and not capable of being withheld.
Understanding sovereignty is the first step toward exercising it.