The Implementation of an International Decision at the Local Level: The League of Nations and the Åland Islands 1920–1951

Abstract

The Ålandic autonomy has evolved into a relatively well-functioning system over the last century. A scrutiny of the first three decades following the decisions by the Council of the League of Nations shows that this was not always the case. This article engages with the main political issues that Åland faced during this time, focusing on the problems that directly or indirectly involved the League. It is argued that from the point of view of the Ålandic population and its political representatives, the survival of the regime cannot be attributed to the design of the solution itself. Had Åland had a larger population and more political and economic muscles, the regime would not have remained intact for as long as it did. When the Åland Example is used in conflict resolution, mistakes made and possible alternative paths are essential elements to explore.