Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

Complete and unrestricted authority of a state over its territory and population without external interference.

The legal theory that a state's existence is independent of recognition by other states and that recognition merely acknowledges an existing fact.

The formal acceptance by one state of another entity as a sovereign state capable of entering into relations.

A situation where a state's control over its territory or population is divided among multiple authorities, often leading to weakened governance and challenges in international relations.

An entity with some attributes of statehood but lacking full sovereignty or international recognition.

The principle that states have full authority over their territory and domestic affairs without external interference.

The rules governing the continuity or termination of treaty obligations when a state undergoes fundamental changes like dissolution or unification.