Book Reviews Gayim, Eyassu. The Eritrean Question: The Conflict between the Right of Self-Determination and the Interests of the States. Uppsala: Iustus Forlag, 1993. Pp. 709. Index. In this intricate and meticulous study of the Eritrean experience, Gayim reveals the hypocrisy and inconsistency that have become prevalent in the application of the term self-determination. Gayim dives into the minutiae, picking amongst transcripts and through proceedings and events in a methodical and pedantic manner. The amount of detail presented leaves the reader sometimes overwhelmed but none of the texts is irrelevant. They are worth the wading as each piece adds to the complex exploration of the history and experience of Eritrea. Gayim succeeds in presenting various contexts through which to assess the interpretation and use of the principle of self-determination. By so thoroughly contextualizing the situation in Eritrea, Gayim is able to offer several case studies within the book which have implications and applications in more universal settings: the impact of colonization, the bad fit between history and nationalist identity, the dividing up of territory after war, the emergence of the right to self-determination in international law. The actions of the Four Powers after the war are given close scrutiny by Gayim, who is able to describe the back-stabbing and infighting as well as the lack of concern for the people in ex-colonial territories. Another achievement in the book is the author's close examination of the debates within the United Nations. Gayim highlights the forming of alliances and fractures within the international legal order by playing out step-by-step the process needed to reach a consensus. Gayim presents a case that raises questions about the political realities of the new world order. He shows the powerlessness and vulnerability of a small country like Eritrea to the whims and desires of more powerful nations. For those who have optimism in the ability of the current international regime to solve difficult disputes, generate fair and equitable outcomes and promote stability and security, Gayim presents a troubling situation which raises more questions than it answers about the principles of international law and the way they are applied. Larissa Behrendt Harvard Law School
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