Abstract: The article analyses the acute issues of the realization of the right of peoples to self-determination. The author describes the history of the formation of the doctrine and regulation of the right of peoples to self-determination in international law documents and in acts of national legislation of the countries of the world. In the concluding part of the article the author reveals the main features of the right of peoples to self-determination.

Keywords: tThe right of peoples to self-determination; national-territorial organization; nations, peoples, ethnic group in international law and national legislation