UNPO's Department of Research is currently considering a proposal for a so-called Lessons Learned Research Project on Self-Determination.

The project's aim is to investigate the causes leading to a successful struggle for autonomy by the former (and nowadays supporting) members of the UNPO. What is the background to their success; how and why did Estonia, Armenia and Palau succeed? Can any specific similarities be drawn from other continuing struggles, such as that of Bougainville? If so, to what extend can other nations, minorities and indigenous peoples learn from these success stories?

The case of East Timor is the most recent example, as it will probably gain independent by next year. While independent Georgia and Latvia are also former members of the UNPO, their cases carry a strong resemblance to the cases of Armenia and Estonia respectively, and will therefore not be considered.

The role of the UN and international community in general in this respect will also be considered.