Territorial fragility and the future of Tibet: Sub-sovereignty, problems and theoretical solutions

This chapter addresses a wide range of theoretical discussions of a “two-tier system” in the post-Westphalian concept of international relations. Various potential applications of the system in the contemporary world order, especially in Europe and Asia, will be discussed. At last, this chapter looks at whether the model might satisfy the criteria for compromise and be applicable to separatist movements in China like that in Tibet, by summarizing a list of de facto criteria for compromise for any acceptable solution to all sides concerned, with a conclusion on the potential for China to apply the model to enhance its international standing given at the end. Copyright © Springer Science + Business Media, LLC 2011.