Sovereignty

Definition

Sovereignty is the authority of a state to govern itself and make decisions independently, without external interference. This concept is fundamental in understanding the rise of nation-states and nationalism, as it emphasizes the right of nations to self-determination and control over their own affairs, which became increasingly significant in shaping modern political boundaries and identities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sovereignty emerged as a crucial principle in international law during the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, marking the end of religious wars in Europe and the recognition of state sovereignty.
2. With the rise of nationalism in the 19th century, many countries sought to assert their sovereignty against imperial powers, leading to independence movements and the establishment of new nation-states.
3. Sovereignty is often challenged by globalization, where international organizations and treaties may limit a state's ability to act independently in certain areas.
4. In modern contexts, sovereignty is linked to issues like territorial integrity, non-interference in domestic affairs, and international recognition.
5. The concept of sovereignty has evolved over time, now also encompassing ideas like 'responsibility to protect,' which suggests that states may intervene in others' affairs to prevent humanitarian crises.

Review Questions

• How did the Peace of Westphalia contribute to the concept of sovereignty in Europe?
  • The Peace of Westphalia in 1648 marked a turning point for sovereignty by establishing the principle that states have the right to govern themselves without external interference. This agreement ended a series of religious conflicts in Europe and laid the groundwork for recognizing territorial integrity and state authority. The notion of sovereign states became foundational in shaping international relations, allowing nations to assert their independence and control over their own affairs.
• Discuss how nationalism influenced the assertion of sovereignty among emerging nation-states during the 19th century.
  • Nationalism played a critical role in encouraging emerging nation-states to assert their sovereignty during the 19th century. As people began to identify more with their nation than with empires or monarchies, movements for self-determination gained momentum. This led to various independence movements and revolutions across Europe and beyond, as nations sought to establish their own governance systems free from colonial or imperial rule.
• Evaluate the impact of globalization on state sovereignty in the contemporary world.
  • Globalization has significantly impacted state sovereignty by introducing new challenges and dynamics in international relations. While states strive to maintain their independent decision-making authority, international organizations and treaties often impose regulations that can limit this autonomy. Issues such as climate change, trade agreements, and human rights compel states to cooperate on global platforms, leading to a complex interplay between maintaining sovereignty and engaging with broader international obligations.

Related terms

Nation-State: A political entity characterized by a defined territory, a permanent population, a government, and the ability to enter into relations with other states.

Nationalism: A political ideology that emphasizes the interests, culture, and identity of a particular nation, often leading to the pursuit of sovereignty and self-governance.

Self-Determination: The principle that nations have the right to choose their own political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development.