The response to the non-inclusion of territory and population may take the form of irredentism: demands to annex "unredeemed" territory and incorporate it into the nation state.
These disputes are in part about irredentism; and they are also about the control of marine and natural resources, such as possible reserves of crude oil and natural gas.
It is sometimes difficult to distinguish irredentism from pan-nationalism, since both claim that all members of an ethnic and cultural nation belong in one specific state.
In international relations, it also leads to policies and movements for irredentism to claim a common nation based upon ethnicity.
The term implies that the group should have such a state, and thus expresses irredentism.
The seven stripes were retained in the cantonal flag regardless, and there remains some irredentism calling for a restored unity of all seven districts.
Irredentism should not be confused with claims to overseas colonies, which are not generally considered part of the national homeland.
A settlement is needed that will be a basis for peace and co-operation, not for irredentism and boycotts.
