Glossary

3.1 Westphalian sovereignty

11 min read•august 20, 2024

emerged from the 1648 , ending the Thirty Years' War. It established the principle of and in other states' affairs, shaping the modern system.

This concept forms the basis of international relations, emphasizing state equality and . However, , , and humanitarian concerns have challenged traditional notions of sovereignty in recent decades.

Origins of Westphalian sovereignty

  • Westphalian sovereignty is a fundamental concept in international relations that emerged in the 17th century, shaping the modern nation-state system
  • It is named after the Peace of Westphalia, a series of treaties signed in 1648 that ended the Thirty Years' War and established a new political order in Europe
  • The Westphalian system marked a shift from the medieval concept of overlapping authorities and loyalties to a system based on the sovereignty of nation-states

Peace of Westphalia in 1648

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  • The Peace of Westphalia was a series of peace treaties signed in the cities of Osnabrück and Münster in 1648
  • The treaties involved the Holy Roman Emperor, the Kingdom of France, the Swedish Empire, the Dutch Republic, and their respective allies
  • The Peace of Westphalia ended the Thirty Years' War, a devastating conflict that involved most of the major European powers and resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life

End of Thirty Years' War

  • The Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) was a complex conflict that began as a religious war between Protestants and Catholics in the Holy Roman Empire but escalated into a broader European struggle for power and territory
  • The war involved a wide range of participants, including the Holy Roman Empire, France, Sweden, Denmark, the Dutch Republic, and various German states
  • The Thirty Years' War was one of the most destructive conflicts in European history, resulting in significant population loss, economic devastation, and social upheaval

Emergence of nation-states

  • The Peace of Westphalia is often seen as a turning point in the emergence of the modern nation-state system
  • The treaties recognized the sovereignty of individual states and their right to determine their own internal affairs, including religion
  • This marked a shift away from the medieval concept of universal authority (such as the Holy Roman Empire or the Catholic Church) towards a system of independent, sovereign states

Principles of Westphalian sovereignty

  • Westphalian sovereignty is based on several key principles that define the rights and responsibilities of nation-states in the international system
  • These principles have formed the foundation of international relations for centuries, although they have faced challenges and adaptations over time
  • The core principles of Westphalian sovereignty include territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs, , and self-determination of nations

Territorial integrity

  • Territorial integrity refers to the principle that a state's borders are inviolable and that other states should respect its sovereignty within those borders
  • This principle prohibits states from interfering in the internal affairs of other states or violating their territorial boundaries
  • Territorial integrity is seen as a fundamental right of states and is enshrined in international law, such as Article 2(4) of the

Non-interference in internal affairs

  • The principle of non-interference in internal affairs stipulates that states should not intervene in the domestic matters of other states
  • This includes refraining from interfering in a state's political, economic, or social systems, as well as its choice of government or leadership
  • The principle of non-interference is based on the idea that states are sovereign entities with the right to determine their own internal policies and practices

Equality of states

  • Westphalian sovereignty emphasizes the legal equality of all states, regardless of their size, power, or wealth
  • This means that all states have equal rights and obligations under international law and that no state has the right to dominate or dictate to others
  • The principle of equality of states is reflected in institutions such as the United Nations, where each member state has one vote in the General Assembly

Self-determination of nations

  • The principle of self-determination holds that nations have the right to freely determine their own political status and pursue their own economic, social, and cultural development
  • This includes the right of peoples to establish their own independent states or to choose their own form of government
  • Self-determination is considered a fundamental human right and is enshrined in various international instruments, such as the UN Charter and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

Challenges to Westphalian sovereignty

  • While Westphalian sovereignty has been a cornerstone of the international system for centuries, it has faced numerous challenges and criticisms in the modern era
  • These challenges have arisen from a range of factors, including globalization, the rise of non-state actors, humanitarian concerns, and the growth of supranational organizations
  • The challenges to Westphalian sovereignty have led to debates about its relevance and adaptability in the face of changing global realities

Globalization and transnational issues

  • Globalization has led to the increasing interconnectedness of states and societies, blurring the lines between domestic and international affairs
  • Transnational issues such as climate change, terrorism, and global health crises transcend national borders and require and cooperation among states
  • The global nature of these challenges has led some to question the ability of individual states to address them effectively and has highlighted the need for more robust international collaboration

Rise of non-state actors

  • Non-state actors, such as multinational corporations, NGOs, and international organizations, have become increasingly influential in the global arena
  • These actors often operate across national borders and can have significant impacts on states' economic, social, and political affairs
  • The rise of non-state actors has challenged the traditional state-centric view of international relations and has raised questions about the extent and limits of state sovereignty

Humanitarian interventions

  • , or the use of military force to protect civilians from mass atrocities or human rights abuses, have become more common in recent decades
  • These interventions are often justified on the grounds of protecting human rights and preventing humanitarian disasters, even if they involve violating the sovereignty of the state in question
  • Humanitarian interventions have raised debates about the balance between state sovereignty and the responsibility of the international community to protect vulnerable populations

Supranational organizations

  • Supranational organizations, such as the European Union and the United Nations, have taken on increasing roles in global governance and have challenged traditional notions of state sovereignty
  • These organizations often have the power to make decisions and enforce rules that are binding on their member states, limiting their autonomy in certain areas
  • The growth of supranational organizations has led to debates about the appropriate balance between national sovereignty and and has raised questions about the democratic legitimacy of these institutions

Westphalian sovereignty in international law

  • Westphalian sovereignty is a fundamental principle of international law, which governs the relations between states and provides the legal framework for the international system
  • The key legal instruments and principles that enshrine Westphalian sovereignty include the UN Charter, the , and the exceptions to the non-intervention principle
  • The application of Westphalian sovereignty in international law has evolved over time, reflecting changing global realities and the emergence of new challenges and norms

UN Charter and state sovereignty

  • The United Nations Charter, adopted in 1945, is the foundational document of the UN system and a key legal instrument enshrining the principles of Westphalian sovereignty
  • Article 2(1) of the UN Charter states that the organization is based on the principle of the sovereign equality of all its members
  • Article 2(7) of the Charter prohibits the UN from intervening in matters that are essentially within the domestic jurisdiction of any state, reflecting the principle of non-interference in internal affairs

Principle of non-intervention

  • The principle of non-intervention is a core tenet of Westphalian sovereignty and is widely recognized as a norm of customary international law
  • This principle prohibits states from interfering in the internal or external affairs of other states, including through the use of force, coercion, or other forms of intervention
  • The principle of non-intervention is seen as essential for maintaining international peace and stability and protecting the autonomy and self-determination of states

Exceptions to non-intervention principle

  • While the principle of non-intervention is a fundamental norm of international law, there are certain exceptions and limitations to its application
  • The UN Charter recognizes the inherent right of individual or collective self-defense in response to an armed attack, as enshrined in Article 51
  • The UN Security Council has the authority to authorize the use of force or other measures to maintain or restore international peace and security, as outlined in Chapter VII of the Charter
  • Other exceptions to the principle of non-intervention include the (R2P) doctrine, which argues that the international community has a responsibility to intervene in cases of mass atrocities or human rights abuses if the state in question is unable or unwilling to protect its own population

Debates on Westphalian sovereignty

  • The concept of Westphalian sovereignty has been the subject of numerous debates and critiques, particularly in light of the challenges posed by globalization, human rights, and global governance
  • These debates have focused on the relevance of Westphalian sovereignty in the modern world, the tension between sovereignty and human rights, the relationship between sovereignty and global governance, and the need to redefine sovereignty for the 21st century
  • The debates on Westphalian sovereignty reflect the ongoing evolution of the international system and the search for new ways to balance the rights and responsibilities of states with the demands of an increasingly interconnected world

Relevance in modern world

  • Some scholars and policymakers have questioned the relevance of Westphalian sovereignty in the modern world, arguing that it is no longer an adequate framework for addressing global challenges and promoting international cooperation
  • They point to the increasing interdependence of states, the rise of non-state actors, and the emergence of global issues that transcend national borders as evidence of the need for new forms of global governance
  • Others defend the continuing relevance of Westphalian sovereignty, arguing that it remains an essential safeguard for the autonomy and self-determination of states and a necessary foundation for international order

Sovereignty vs human rights

  • The relationship between state sovereignty and human rights has been a central tension in international relations, particularly in the context of humanitarian interventions and the responsibility to protect
  • Some argue that the protection of human rights should take precedence over state sovereignty in cases of mass atrocities or severe human rights abuses, justifying international intervention on humanitarian grounds
  • Others maintain that state sovereignty is a fundamental principle of international law and that any violations of it, even in the name of human rights, risk undermining the stability and legitimacy of the international system

Sovereignty vs global governance

  • The rise of global governance institutions and the increasing need for international cooperation to address transnational challenges have led to debates about the relationship between state sovereignty and global governance
  • Some argue that the development of effective global governance requires a pooling or sharing of sovereignty, with states ceding certain powers and authority to international institutions in the interest of collective action
  • Others worry that the growth of global governance threatens to erode state sovereignty and democratic accountability, leading to a loss of control over domestic affairs and a weakening of the nation-state system

Sovereignty in a globalized era

  • The process of globalization has had a profound impact on the nature and exercise of state sovereignty, blurring the lines between domestic and international affairs and creating new challenges and opportunities for states
  • Some argue that globalization has eroded state sovereignty by increasing the power and influence of non-state actors, such as multinational corporations and international organizations, and by making states more vulnerable to external pressures and shocks
  • Others maintain that states have adapted to the challenges of globalization by reasserting their sovereignty in new ways, such as through regional integration, multilateral cooperation, and the development of new forms of governance

Future of Westphalian sovereignty

  • As the international system continues to evolve and new challenges emerge, the future of Westphalian sovereignty remains a topic of ongoing debate and speculation
  • The key issues and trends that are likely to shape the future of Westphalian sovereignty include the need for adaptations to global challenges, the balance between sovereignty and cooperation, and the redefinition of sovereignty for the 21st century
  • The future of Westphalian sovereignty will depend on the ability of states and the international community to find new ways to reconcile the competing demands of autonomy, interdependence, and global governance

Adaptations to global challenges

  • The future of Westphalian sovereignty will require states to adapt to the growing range of global challenges that transcend national borders, such as climate change, pandemics, and cybersecurity threats
  • This may involve the development of new forms of international cooperation and governance, such as multilateral agreements, regional organizations, and global institutions with the authority to coordinate collective action
  • States may also need to reassess their traditional notions of sovereignty and find ways to balance their autonomy with the need for greater international collaboration and burden-sharing

Balancing sovereignty and cooperation

  • The future of Westphalian sovereignty will depend on finding an appropriate balance between the rights and responsibilities of individual states and the demands of international cooperation and global governance
  • This may require a more flexible and nuanced understanding of sovereignty, one that recognizes the need for states to pool or share certain powers and authority in the interest of addressing common challenges
  • At the same time, any adaptations to the Westphalian system will need to ensure that the fundamental principles of state autonomy, self-determination, and non-interference are preserved and protected

Redefining sovereignty for 21st century

  • The challenges and opportunities of the 21st century may require a redefinition of the concept of sovereignty itself, one that is better suited to the realities of an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world
  • This may involve a shift towards a more "responsible sovereignty" that emphasizes the obligations of states to their citizens and to the international community, as well as their rights and privileges as autonomous actors
  • A redefined sovereignty for the 21st century may also need to be more inclusive and participatory, involving a greater role for non-state actors, civil society, and individual citizens in the governance and decision-making processes that shape the global order
  • Ultimately, the future of Westphalian sovereignty will depend on the ability of states and the international community to adapt and evolve in response to the changing realities of the modern world, while preserving the core principles and values that have underpinned the international system for centuries

Key Terms to Review (21)

Collective Action: Collective action refers to the efforts made by a group of individuals to achieve a common goal or address shared concerns. This concept is crucial in understanding how groups mobilize resources, coordinate efforts, and create social movements or political initiatives that can impact governance and policy. It highlights the importance of cooperation among individuals, particularly in contexts where they face challenges that cannot be effectively addressed alone.
Devolution: Devolution refers to the process by which central governments transfer power and authority to local or regional governments, allowing for greater autonomy and self-governance. This shift can lead to a more decentralized political structure, where local governments have the ability to make decisions on various issues, reflecting the unique needs and preferences of their populations. The concept of devolution is often linked to the principles of Westphalian sovereignty, as it can challenge traditional state boundaries and create more complex political landscapes, especially in multinational states.
Equality of states: Equality of states refers to the principle that all sovereign states possess the same rights and obligations under international law, regardless of their size, power, or economic status. This principle is fundamental to the concept of state sovereignty, emphasizing that each state is legally recognized as an equal entity in the international system, allowing for mutual respect and cooperation among nations.
Globalization: Globalization is the process through which businesses, cultures, and economies become interconnected and integrated across global borders. It influences various aspects of society, including state formation, economic policies, and cultural exchanges, leading to a more interdependent world where local practices can be impacted by global dynamics.
Harold Sprout: Harold Sprout was a prominent scholar in the field of political geography, known for his contributions to understanding the interplay between geography and international relations. His work emphasized the significance of geographical factors in shaping state behavior and the conduct of foreign policy, particularly through the lens of Westphalian sovereignty. Sprout's theories illustrate how states navigate their relationships with one another based on geographic realities, political boundaries, and historical contexts.
Humanitarian interventions: Humanitarian interventions are actions taken by countries or international organizations to prevent or stop human rights abuses and provide relief to suffering populations, often during conflicts or crises. These interventions aim to protect civilians and restore basic human rights, but they can raise complex questions about sovereignty and the legitimacy of foreign involvement in a state's internal affairs.
International Cooperation: International cooperation refers to the collaboration between countries to address common challenges and pursue shared goals, often facilitated by treaties, alliances, and organizations. This concept emphasizes the importance of diplomacy and collective action in an increasingly interconnected world, where issues like security, trade, and environmental concerns transcend national borders. Effective international cooperation can help mitigate conflicts, enhance security, and promote economic development among nations.
Interventionism: Interventionism is a foreign policy approach where a country actively intervenes in the affairs of another nation, often through military or political means, to achieve certain objectives. This practice can be motivated by humanitarian concerns, national security interests, or the desire to influence political outcomes in the target country. The concept stands in contrast to non-interventionist policies, which emphasize respecting the sovereignty of other states and avoiding external interference.
John Agnew: John Agnew is a prominent political geographer known for his contributions to understanding the concepts of statehood, sovereignty, and the spatial dimensions of power. His work often critiques the traditional notions of state sovereignty, particularly in relation to Westphalian principles, and explores how geography influences political identities and actions within multinational states, separatism, and regional governance structures.
Nation-state: A nation-state is a political entity characterized by a defined territory, a permanent population, and a government that exercises sovereignty over its affairs, while also possessing a shared sense of identity and culture among its citizens. This concept emphasizes the alignment of national identity with state boundaries, reflecting both the historical evolution of political authority and the principles of self-determination. The nation-state emerged as a dominant form of political organization following the Treaty of Westphalia, contributing to the modern understanding of state sovereignty and the development of civic nationalism.
Non-interference: Non-interference is the principle that states should not intervene in the internal affairs of other states. This concept is crucial in international relations, as it emphasizes respect for sovereignty and the autonomy of nations, allowing them to govern themselves without outside interference. It also reflects the idea that each state has the right to determine its own political, economic, and social systems without external pressure or influence.
Non-state actors: Non-state actors are individuals or groups that hold influence and power but do not operate within the formal structures of a state. These actors can include organizations such as non-governmental organizations (NGOs), multinational corporations, terrorist groups, and various grassroots movements. Their presence challenges traditional notions of sovereignty and governance, reshaping how we understand political power in relation to entities that are not recognized as official states.
Peace of Westphalia: The Peace of Westphalia refers to a series of treaties that were signed in 1648, marking the end of the Thirty Years' War in Europe. This set of agreements is significant for establishing the principles of state sovereignty and territorial integrity that continue to influence international relations today. It laid the groundwork for modern concepts of governance, emphasizing that states have authority over their own territories and should be respected as such by other states.
Principle of Non-Intervention: The principle of non-intervention is a key norm in international relations that asserts that no state should intervene in the internal affairs of another sovereign state. This principle promotes respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, reinforcing the idea that each state has the right to manage its own affairs without external interference, aligning closely with concepts like Westphalian sovereignty.
Responsibility to Protect: The Responsibility to Protect (R2P) is a global political commitment that aims to ensure the protection of populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity. It emphasizes that sovereignty is not a privilege but a responsibility, meaning that states have an obligation to protect their citizens. When they fail to do so, the international community has a duty to intervene, which can sometimes challenge traditional notions of sovereignty.
Self-Determination: Self-determination is the principle that allows peoples and nations to determine their own political status and pursue their own economic, social, and cultural development. This idea is deeply connected to concepts of sovereignty and national identity, making it a fundamental aspect of discussions around territorial integrity, border conflicts, and the rights of various groups to govern themselves.
Sovereignty crisis: A sovereignty crisis occurs when the authority of a state is challenged, leading to conflicts over territorial control, governance, and recognition. This situation often arises from internal divisions, external pressures, or the emergence of non-state actors that undermine the state's ability to assert its sovereignty. Such crises can destabilize regions and disrupt the traditional notions of statehood and territorial integrity.
Supranationalism: Supranationalism refers to the concept of transcending national boundaries to create a collective governance structure that can make decisions and enforce laws across multiple countries. This idea emphasizes cooperation among nations for mutual benefits, often leading to shared policies and initiatives in areas like trade, security, and environmental issues. The influence of supranationalism challenges traditional notions of sovereignty, as it involves countries delegating authority to a higher authority or organization, which can reshape the dynamics of global politics.
Territorial integrity: Territorial integrity refers to the principle under international law that prohibits the violation of a state's borders or the dismemberment of its territory by external forces. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining the political and geographic unity of a state, asserting that each state has the right to defend its boundaries against foreign intervention. This concept is closely tied to sovereignty, as it ensures that states remain whole and undivided in the face of internal or external challenges.
UN Charter: The UN Charter is the foundational treaty of the United Nations, established in 1945, that outlines the organization’s purposes, principles, and structure. It serves as a guiding document for international relations and law, promoting peace, security, and cooperation among member states. The Charter emphasizes the importance of sovereignty and the non-interference in domestic affairs of states, reflecting principles related to both Westphalian sovereignty and territorial sovereignty.
Westphalian Sovereignty: Westphalian sovereignty refers to the principle of territorial integrity and the recognition of a state's authority over its territory and domestic affairs, free from external interference. This concept emerged from the Peace of Westphalia treaties in 1648, which ended the Thirty Years' War in Europe and established a new political order based on the equal sovereignty of states. It is crucial in understanding modern international relations and the structure of the state system.
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