International Relations Conflict And Security Studies Questions
The concept of sovereignty in international relations refers to the supreme authority and independence of a state within its territorial boundaries. It is the principle that states have the right to govern themselves without interference from external actors. Sovereignty encompasses both internal and external dimensions. Internally, it implies that the state has the ultimate power and control over its territory, population, and resources. Externally, it implies that states are equal and have the right to non-interference in their domestic affairs by other states. Sovereignty is a fundamental principle of the international system and serves as the basis for the recognition and legitimacy of states. However, sovereignty is not absolute and can be limited by international law, treaties, and agreements, as well as by the norms and practices of the international community.