Dr Ashrawi argues that the time has come for the world to move beyond the concept of national sovereignty. Sovereignty constrains: for the powerful state, it often means the power to disenfranchise other peoples. And in many of the world's weaker states, it gives us governments that believe they own their land and their people, to do with as they choose. The world will always be run by self-interest. But a narrow concept of sovereignty means that self interest can never become benign, global, collective self-interest.

Global institutions, particularly the United Nations, are built on national sovereignty. Inevitably, they become subject to the most powerful state or alliance of states. The permanent Security Council reflects this reality. But globalization is challenging this order. Yes, globalization can enhance the power of the powerful, like the western mega corporations. But it also creates new ways for individuals and groups to communicate, to act together, to participate in decisionmaking and to challenge governments. The Palestinians are a case in point. Half the Palestinian population are exiles, but global communications are recreating this community.