Definition: Sovereignty is the quality of having supreme independent authority over a territory.
Characteristics: No other power or entity can overrule the actions of the rulers of a sovereign state. The state's laws are the ultimate authority.
Proving Sovereignty
Extreme Example: The theoretical ability to exercise extreme control, such as capital punishment, without repercussions, proves sovereignty.
International Response: Other countries respect a nation’s actions within its borders due to reciprocity, expecting the same respect in return.
Historical Context
Development: Sovereignty is a relatively modern concept, primarily from the last 300-500 years, emerging from Europe.
Divine Right of Kings: Earlier sovereignty was based on divine rights or religious blessings, e.g., Divine Right of Kings, Mandate of Heaven.
Evolution of Sovereignty
From Individuals to States: Sovereignty shifted from individual rulers to the state and its people.
Nation-State: Emerged through European wars and boundary definitions, focusing on both people and territory.
Peoples as Sovereign: Sovereignty is increasingly seen as belonging to the populace rather than an individual.
Sovereignty and Defendability
Defendability: Historically, sovereignty was proven through the ability to defend one's territory.
Allies: Strong alliances could also affirm sovereignty, e.g., Serbia with Russia.
Modern Sovereignty
Recognition Over Defendability: In modern times, sovereignty is more about international recognition, especially through the United Nations.
United Nations Role: Achieving sovereignty often involves getting a resolution passed by the UN.
UN Permanent Security Council: The P5 (US, UK, China, Russia, France) have veto power over UN resolutions, affecting state recognition.
Examples in Modern Context
Taiwan and Kosovo: These regions struggle for recognition due to vetoes by China and Russia, respectively.
Hypothetical Example: Texas seceding would be vetoed by the US in the P5.
Current Issues
Sovereignty in Question: The concept is currently challenged by international issues like genocide, which can undermine state sovereignty.
Conclusion
Sovereignty continues to evolve, and its definitions and applications are subject to change, especially under global pressures and ethical considerations.