Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

A doctrine preventing courts of one country from questioning the validity of public acts committed by a recognized foreign sovereign within its own territory.

An exception allowing domestic courts to review foreign sovereign acts when they violate international law or fundamental rights. It limits the traditional immunity of states in judicial proceedings.

The forcible acquisition of one state's territory by another state without the consent of the former.

All states possess equal rights and duties under international law regardless of their size or power.

The act by a state of taking private property for public use, usually requiring prompt and adequate compensation under international investment law.

The state's taking of private property for public use, requiring prompt, adequate, and effective payment to the owner.

The ability of a state to exercise legal power beyond its territorial boundaries under certain conditions.

The agreement by a state allowing foreign armed forces or peacekeepers to operate within its territory.

The use of force or influence by one state within the territory or affairs of another state without consent, generally prohibited under international law.

The authority claimed by some states to intervene legally in another state's affairs under specific international law conditions.

The rule prohibiting states from intervening in the internal or external affairs of other states in a manner violating sovereignty.

The principle that a sovereign state cannot be sued in the courts of another state without its consent.

The concept that a state is bound by international law only when it has given explicit or implicit consent to be bound.

A belt of coastal waters extending up to 12 nautical miles from the baseline, over which a state has sovereignty.