Background
Overview
This concept is fundamental to understanding international relations, foreign policy formulation, and the challenges of global governance. It helps explain why states make certain choices regarding alliances, trade agreements, and regional integration.
National sovereignty refers to the supreme authority of a state within its territory, free from external control. In an increasingly interconnected world, states often engage in international integration through regional blocs or multilateral organizations, which can entail ceding certain aspects of sovereignty in exchange for economic, political, or security benefits. Balancing national interest, including economic prosperity and security, with the preservation of sovereignty is a critical challenge for states.