In a few weeks, Albertans will be asked in a referendum whether they want the province to remain in Canada or move toward a second referendum on independence.
An independent Alberta would not only have to meet the requirements of statehood — people, territory, an effective government and the capacity to deal with states — but it would also have to be recognized by other countries, most importantly the United States. Without recognition, an aspiring state has no international standing. It could not engage in diplomacy, enter into international agreements or join international organizations.
