1.
Introduction to Sovereignty
Sovereignty is a core concept in political science and international relations. It represents the
supreme and absolute authority of a state to govern itself, make laws, enforce decisions, and
regulate its internal and external affairs without interference. The idea of sovereignty is essential
to understanding the organization, functions, and legitimacy of modern states.
The concept gained prominence during the rise of nation-states in Europe and remains a
cornerstone of modern political thought. Despite evolving interpretations, sovereignty is vital for
maintaining law, order, and stability within a state and establishing equal status among nations
globally.
2. Definitions of Sovereignty
Jean Bodin (16th century) – "Sovereignty is the absolute and perpetual power of the
state."
Thomas Hobbes – "Sovereignty is the ultimate authority vested in a ruler or governing
body to ensure order and security."
John Austin – "Sovereignty is the supreme authority that is legally unlimited and cannot
be challenged."
Modern View – Sovereignty is the legal right and political power of a state to govern
without external control and to maintain independence.
3. Characteristics of Sovereignty
1. Absoluteness
Sovereignty is supreme and unlimited within its territory.
The state has the authority to make laws, enforce decisions, and regulate all internal and
external affairs without being overridden by any external power.
No institution, group, or individual can question or limit the authority of the sovereign.
Example: A sovereign state can impose taxes, enforce criminal laws, and regulate
commerce without interference.
2. Permanence
Sovereignty is permanent and enduring as long as the state exists.
Even if governments, leaders, or regimes change, sovereignty remains intact.
Example: Pakistan's sovereignty remained unchanged even after multiple constitutional
amendments and political transitions.
3. Indivisibility
Sovereignty cannot be divided or shared among multiple authorities.
The sovereign authority must remain unified to ensure stability and enforceability of
laws.
Example: Even in federal states like Pakistan, sovereignty ultimately resides in the
federal government, which represents the nation as a single entity.
4. Inalienability
Sovereignty cannot be transferred, delegated, or given away permanently.
While a state may enter treaties or agreements, it cannot surrender its sovereignty to
another state or organization.
Example: Pakistan may join international organizations like the UN but does not lose its
sovereignty in doing so.
5. Exclusivity
The state has exclusive control over its territory, population, and resources.
No external authority can claim jurisdiction or enforce laws within the boundaries of a
sovereign state.
Example: Only the Government of Pakistan has the power to legislate for its citizens.
6. Universality
Sovereignty applies to all individuals, groups, and institutions within the territory of
the state.
No person or organization can claim exemption from the authority of the sovereign.
Example: All citizens, whether common people or government officials, must obey state
laws.
4. Types of Sovereignty
1. Internal Sovereignty
Refers to a state’s authority within its territory.
Ensures the government has the right to legislate, enforce laws, and administer justice
without interference.
Example: Pakistan’s internal sovereignty allows it to enforce its own constitution and
laws.
2. External Sovereignty
Refers to the independence of a state in conducting foreign relations and managing
international affairs.
States are equal under international law, and external sovereignty prevents external
interference.
Example: Pakistan has the right to sign treaties and establish foreign policies
independently.
3. Legal Sovereignty
Lies with the legal framework of the state, such as the constitution, laws, and judicial
bodies.
Example: The Constitution of Pakistan is the supreme legal authority.
4. Political Sovereignty
Represents the actual control and power exercised by the government and political
leaders.
Public opinion, elections, and political actions influence political sovereignty.
5. Popular Sovereignty
Highlights that ultimate authority resides with the people who elect representatives to
govern them.
Example: Democratic systems like Pakistan's parliamentary structure operate on popular
sovereignty.
6. De Jure and De Facto Sovereignty
De Jure (By Law): Sovereignty that is recognized legally.
De Facto (In Reality): Sovereignty that is practically exercised, even without legal
recognition.
Example: A rebel group might hold de facto sovereignty in a region, even if it lacks de
jure recognition.
5. Historical Evolution of Sovereignty
1. Classical Period (Jean Bodin)
o Focused on the absolute power of monarchs.
o Established the idea of centralized authority.
2. Hobbes’ Theory
o Advocated for a powerful sovereign (Leviathan) to ensure order and security in
society.
3. Modern Democratic Theory
o Shifted towards popular sovereignty, where power originates from the people
through constitutions and laws.
4. Globalization Era
o Sovereignty evolved to accommodate international laws, organizations, and
treaties, reducing absolute independence.
6. Importance of Sovereignty
1. Preserves State Identity – Sovereignty protects the distinct identity, laws, and systems
of a state.
2. Maintains Order and Stability – It allows governments to create laws, enforce rules,
and resolve disputes.
3. Ensures Independence – External sovereignty guarantees freedom from foreign control.
4. Enables Diplomacy – States can establish diplomatic relations, sign treaties, and engage
in trade agreements based on sovereignty.
5. Protects Citizens’ Rights – Sovereignty provides the framework for implementing laws
that safeguard individual rights and freedoms.
7. Challenges to Sovereignty
1. Globalization
International trade, financial institutions, and multinational corporations often limit the
economic independence of states.
Example: Agreements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) impose economic
restrictions on sovereign policies.
2. International Organizations
Institutions like the United Nations (UN) influence domestic policies, especially through
resolutions and interventions.
3. Humanitarian Interventions
Military interventions for human rights often challenge sovereignty.
Example: NATO’s intervention in Kosovo (1999).
4. Regional Organizations
Groups like the European Union (EU) enforce laws that member states must follow,
sometimes overriding national laws.
5. Environmental and Health Issues
Climate change agreements and pandemics necessitate global cooperation, impacting
national sovereignty.
Example: The Paris Agreement requires states to implement specific climate policies.
6. Terrorism and Cyber Threats
Transnational threats, such as terrorism and cyber-attacks, undermine state sovereignty
by requiring collective global responses.
8. Modern Perspectives on Sovereignty
1. Absolute vs. Relative Sovereignty
o Modern states experience relative sovereignty, where cooperation and
interdependence reduce absolute authority.
2. Shared Sovereignty
o States share sovereignty through international agreements, allowing
collaboration while retaining core autonomy.
3. Conditional Sovereignty
o Sovereignty is conditioned on respect for human rights and international laws,
limiting its absoluteness.
9. Conclusion
Sovereignty remains a fundamental principle in political science, defining the independence and
authority of states. While classical sovereignty emphasized absolute control, modern
sovereignty accommodates democratic values and international cooperation. Despite
challenges from globalization, regional organizations, and transnational issues, sovereignty
continues to evolve, balancing national authority with global responsibilities.
This evolution highlights the importance of adapting sovereignty to address contemporary
realities while maintaining the stability and independence of states.
