P & B: Sovereignty Definitions Flashcards
State
Area of land with clear boundaries and a single government, recognised by other states. (Usually through the UN).
Nation
A large group of people who share strong bonds of identity. (Do not necessarily have a state).
Nation State
Area of land with well defined boundaries, is independent/ self-governing, inhabited by one or more nations.
Sovereignty
The absolute authority that independent states have in the governing of their land and people within their own territory. (Should be sustained internally and externally).
Territorial Integrity
Defined territory that is legitimately controlled, and should not be violated.
State Apparatus
The set of institutions which help a state to function.
Fragile State Index (FSI)
An annual report by the US assessing how vulnerable a state is to conflict or collapse.
Sovereign Equality
The principle that all states, regardless of size or wealth, are equal before international law.
Secession/ Autonomy/ Separatism
The act of becoming independent and no longer part of a country.
Norms
Moral principles that have developed over time, and have become universally accepted.
Intervention
Action taken by a state, group of states, or international organisations, agreed to by the UN, to resolve conflict or violations of human rights in a particular state.
Sanctions
A form of intervention which penalises/ restricts a country, its officials, or private citizens as a means of disincentives for targeted policies or actions.
Responsibility to Protect (R2P)
‘A fundamental sovereign responsibility to protect’ a country’s citizens. ‘If they fail to do so, that responsibility falls to the United Nation System.’
Self-Determination
The right of a nation or group who should be able to determine their political future and pursue development.
Geopolitics
The global balance of political power and international relations.
