Chapter 3: The State in International Relations- Nationalism and State Power in Dystopian Futures

3.3: Nationalism and State Sovereignty

Nationalism is one of the most powerful forces in shaping the identity, unity, and politics of a nation-state. At its core, nationalism is the idea that loyalty and devotion to one’s nation should take precedence, fostering a sense of shared identity and purpose. Nationalism can inspire citizens to work toward common goals, defend their homeland, and seek political independence. However, nationalism can also be used to push people towards fear, anger, and even hatred. In The Hunger Games series, nationalism becomes a catalyst for resistance, as the districts unite against the Capitol’s oppression, forming a national identity rooted in shared suffering and a desire for freedom. Whether it drives movements for independence, unifies people through shared values, or even stokes conflict over territorial claims, nationalism has a profound impact on state sovereignty. Understanding the different forms of nationalism—ethnic, civic, and others—helps us see how this force can build solidarity or, at times, lead to division and conflict.

Ethnic nationalism defines the state through shared ethnicity, culture, and descent, often emphasizing a homogenous national identity. This form of nationalism is rooted in the belief that people of the same ethnic background should be united under one state, sharing a unique cultural heritage. In The Hunger Games, each district exhibits its own form of ethnic identity, with distinct cultures shaped by labor and resource specialization, such as District 4’s focus on fishing and District 12’s coal mining. Although these districts have been forcibly separated and ruled by the Capitol, their cultural identities foster a sense of unity within each district. This shared heritage becomes a source of pride, reinforcing bonds among residents and fueling resentment toward the Capitol’s domination. Ethnic nationalism can sometimes lead to exclusionary attitudes or conflict, as seen in real-world examples like the breakup of Yugoslavia, where ethnic divisions led to intense, violent struggles for independence. In Panem, ethnic nationalism within each district ultimately contributes to a larger sense of solidarity across the districts, laying the groundwork for a united front against the Capitol.

In contrast to ethnic nationalism, civic nationalism defines the nation through shared political values, citizenship, and a commitment to the state’s institutions, rather than ethnic ties. Civic nationalism emphasizes the idea that anyone who believes in the principles of a nation—such as freedom, equality, or democracy—can be a part of it, regardless of their background. In Mockingjay – Part 2, we see civic nationalism begin to take shape as the districts join together, driven not just by ethnic pride but by a common vision of justice and self-governance. Katniss Everdeen becomes a unifying figure, symbolizing shared values like resilience and the fight for freedom, which resonate across district lines. This form of nationalism brings the districts together around a set of ideals rather than their individual cultures, helping them see themselves as one people with a common purpose. Civic nationalism can be a powerful unifier, as it allows diverse groups to come together under a shared political identity, which can lead to stronger, more inclusive states. This unity among the districts highlights how civic nationalism can create cohesion even in a divided society, preparing the districts to challenge the Capitol’s authority together.

Nationalism often inspires pride, unity, and a strong sense of belonging among people who share a common identity. But in some cases, it doesn’t stop at affirming identity within existing borders—it fuels the belief that parts of neighboring territory should be reclaimed as part of the national homeland. Irredentism takes nationalism a step further by focusing on reclaiming or reuniting territories that are seen as historically or ethnically tied to the nation. Irredentist movements often emerge when people believe that a region outside their state’s current borders “rightfully” belongs to them, based on shared culture, language, or historical experience. These claims can lead to serious international disputes. For example, Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea was justified by invoking historical and ethnic ties to the region, despite international condemnation and Ukraine’s claims to the territory. Irredentism highlights how nationalist sentiments, when paired with territorial ambition, can escalate into geopolitical crises. At its core, irredentism reflects the tension between existing political borders and perceived cultural or historical boundaries—a tension that continues to challenge international norms and the sovereignty of states.

Secessionism, closely related to irredentism, involves a region or group within a state pursuing complete independence and the creation of a new, sovereign state. Secessionist movements are driven by the belief that a distinct group has the right to self-rule and should not be governed by a state that does not represent its interests or identity. In The Hunger Games, the districts’ rebellion against the Capitol represents a form of secessionism, as they aim to break free from the Capitol’s oppressive control and establish self-governance. The districts feel they no longer belong under the Capitol’s rule, and their collective uprising reflects a desire to form an independent political entity free from the Capitol’s influence. Real-world secessionist movements, such as Catalonia’s efforts to gain independence from Spain, similarly reflect the pursuit of political autonomy and freedom. Secessionism often tests state sovereignty, challenging a state’s ability to retain control over its territories and raising questions about the right to self-determination. In Panem, the districts’ drive for independence illustrates how secessionism can be both a reaction to oppression and a powerful expression of national identity.

As we can see, nationalism in its many forms shapes the relationships between people, territories, and governments, affecting everything from cultural pride to political uprisings. By examining the different types of nationalism through The Hunger Games, we see how these forces play out in both real and fictional worlds, influencing the struggle for power, autonomy, and unity. Each type of nationalism provides a unique lens through which to understand state sovereignty and the right to self-determination, themes that are central to both international relations and the lives of Panem’s citizens.