About Bioregional Sovereignty

From National Sovereignty to Globalization: The Inevitable Path towards Bioregional Sovereignty

The Steep, Slow, Bumpy Ride to Bioregional Sovereignty

About Careholders

About Denizens

Introduction

The Peace of Westphalia in 1648 marked a significant turning point in world history by establishing the principle of national sovereignty and the state system as the basis for international relations. However, with the advent of globalization, the concept of national sovereignty has undergone a transformation, as increasing interconnectedness and interdependence among nations have reshaped the dynamics of power and governance.

This section explores the evolution from national sovereignty to globalization and argues that bioregional sovereignty provides a logical framework to address the ecological crises resulting from a disconnect between citizens denizens and their source of food and energy as a direct result of globalization.

Throughout this wiki, we refer to denizens rather than citizens.

About Denizens⁠

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What is Bioregional Sovereignty?

Bioregional Sovereignty refers to the concept of empowering local communities or Water Catchment Areas (WCAs) to make decisions and govern their natural resources and ecosystems according to their specific bioregional characteristics and needs. It emphasizes the idea that the people who inhabit a particular bioregion, defined by its unique ecological and geographical features, have a deep connection, respect for, and responsibility towards their environment. This is in stark contrast to globalization.

Bioregional sovereignty recognizes that ecosystems do not conform to political boundaries but rather exist within natural boundaries defined by ecological factors. It promotes the idea that decisions about resource management, land use, conservation, and environmental policies should be made at the local or regional level, taking into account the ecological integrity and sustainability of the specific bioregion.

The concept of bioregional sovereignty aligns with principles of localism, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment. It emphasizes the importance of indigenous (local) knowledge, participation, and self-governance in shaping policies that impact the natural environment.

By claiming bioregional sovereignty, communities have the opportunity to develop and implement sustainable practices that are suitable for their specific ecosystems, cultural traditions, and social needs. It encourages a bottom-up approach to environmental governance, where decisions are made by those who have a direct relationship with and understanding of the local environment.

Overall, bioregional sovereignty promotes a shift away from centralized decision-making and towards a more decentralized, place-based approach to environmental stewardship, where local communities have the authority and responsibility to govern their natural resources and ecosystems in a way that aligns with the principles of ecological sustainability and community well-being.

The Transformation from National Sovereignty to Globalization

The principle of national sovereignty, established by the

Peace of Westphalia⁠

, granted states exclusive control over their internal affairs and recognized their equality in the international arena. This framework facilitated the formation of modern nation-states and provided stability in a world marked by religious and political conflicts. However, advancements in technology, communication, and transportation have facilitated the globalization process, eroding the traditional boundaries of nation-states.

Globalization, characterized by increased flows of goods, capital, information, and people across borders, has challenged the notion of national sovereignty. The rise of multinational corporations, global financial markets, and supranational organizations like the United Nations and World Trade Organization has shifted power away from individual states and towards an international system, sometimes referred to as

Neoliberalism⁠

The Paradox of Globalization

While globalization has brought economic prosperity and cultural exchange, it has also led to various challenges and disparities. The pursuit of economic growth and profit has often disregarded environmental sustainability, resulting in ecological crises such as deforestation, pollution, and exacerbated climate change. Additionally, globalization has led to social inequalities, as multinational corporations exploit cheap labor in developing countries and wealth disparities widen.

The Call for Bioregional Sovereignty

In the face of the ecological and social crises we’re witnessing, the concept of bioregional sovereignty emerges as a logical, place-based, citizen-led denizen-led response. Bioregional sovereignty emphasizes the importance of local communities and regions in managing and preserving their ecological resources. It acknowledges the interdependence between human societies and their natural environment, recognizing the need for sustainable practices and stewardship.

Throughout this wiki, we refer to denizens rather than citizens.

About Denizens⁠

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Bioregional sovereignty advocates for decentralized decision-making, empowering local communities to determine their resource management policies based on their unique ecological context. By focusing on the bioregion as the fundamental unit of governance, bioregional sovereignty promotes self-sufficiency, resilience, and the preservation of biodiversity. It encourages resilient food production, alternative energy sources, and the protection of water resources, aligning with the principles of ecological stewardship.

Moreover, bioregional sovereignty promotes community engagement and participatory governance, fostering a sense of stewardship and accountability for the local environment. It encourages the development of local economies based on circular economy practices, including regenerative permaculture, eco-tourism, and the promotion of locally sourced products. This approach strengthens local resilience, reduces dependence on global markets, and fosters social cohesion.

Conclusion

The transformation from national sovereignty to globalization has reshaped the dynamics of power and governance in the world. While globalization has brought benefits, it has also exacerbated ecological crises and social inequalities. Bioregional sovereignty emerges as a logical framework to address these challenges, providing a template that prioritizes ecological sustainability, community empowerment, and local self-sufficiency.

By recognizing the importance of the bioregion and the interdependence between human societies and their environment, bioregional sovereignty offers a path forward in mitigating the adverse effects of globalization. Embracing bioregional sovereignty allows for the development of resilient, self-sustaining communities that can address ecological crises while strengthening their local economies and preserving cultural diversity.

In the face of global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion, bioregional sovereignty offers a holistic approach that integrates environmental, social, and economic dimensions. It encourages a shift from a globalized system that prioritizes profit and economic growth to one that prioritizes the well-being of both human societies and the natural environment.

Implementing bioregional sovereignty requires collaborative efforts among various stakeholders careholders, including local communities, municipalities, NGOs, funders, and indigenous groups. It involves the development of policies and institutions that support sustainable resource management, ecological restoration, and the protection of indigenous knowledge and rights.

Throughout this wiki, we refer to careholders rather than stakeholders or shareholders.

About Careholders⁠

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Bioregional sovereignty is not an isolationist approach but rather an inclusive and interconnected one. It recognizes the need for regional cooperation and collaboration to address shared ecological challenges. Networks of bioregional communities can exchange knowledge, resources, and best practices, fostering resilience and innovation.

The journey towards bioregional sovereignty is not without its challenges. It requires a shift in mindset, as well as overcoming existing power structures and vested interests that prioritize globalized economic systems. It necessitates reevaluating policies, regulations, and economic models to align with ecological principles and the well-being of local communities.

In conclusion, the evolution from national sovereignty to globalization has brought both benefits and challenges. However, the ecological crises resulting from globalization call for a reevaluation of our relationship with the natural world and a transition towards bioregional sovereignty. By prioritizing local decision-making, ecological sustainability, and community empowerment, bioregional sovereignty provides a logical and transformative framework to address the interconnected challenges of our time. It offers the opportunity to build resilient, self-sustaining communities that harmoniously coexist with their ecosystems, ensuring a more equitable and sustainable future for generations to come.