Sovereignty

Sovereignty is a concept that has been central to political and legal thought since the 16th century. It refers to the full right and power of a governing body over itself, without any interference from outside sources or bodies. In political theory, sovereignty is a substantive term designating supreme legitimate authority over some polity.

Definition and types

The concept of sovereignty has been discussed throughout history, and is still actively debated. Its definition, types, and possible limitations are controversial topics. International law, political science, and philosophy all have different perspectives on the nature of sovereignty.

Legal sovereignty

Legal sovereignty is the authority to create, modify, or extinguish law, and to decide all issues of fact and law within its territory. It is the supreme power over a particular territory.

Political sovereignty

Political sovereignty is the supreme power to command and enforce obedience, to make, execute, and apply laws, and to maintain peace and order.

History

The concept of sovereignty has evolved over time, from the peace treaties of Westphalia in the 17th century to the United Nations Charter in the 20th century.

Westphalia

The Peace of Westphalia treaties in 1648 ended several wars in Europe and established the concept of state sovereignty.

United Nations

The United Nations Charter in 1945, while affirming the sovereign equality of all its Members, also created a contractual obligation on all Member States to refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.

Challenges

Sovereignty is challenged by concepts such as globalization, human rights, and international law. These challenges are often related to the tension between the principles of territorial integrity and self-determination.

See also

• Monarch
• State (polity)
• Supranational union

References

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  Frontispiece of "Leviathan" by Thomas Hobbes