IB Global Politics Evolving Concepts of State Sovereignty: Traditional Vs. Modern Perspectives Key Definitions

External sovereignty refers to a state’s ability to act independently in international affairs—outside its borders. It reflects how much power a state has when interacting with other states and global actors.

Refers to countries with lower levels of economic and industrial development, typically found south of more developed nations.

Humanitarian intervention refers to the use of military force by one or more states in another state without the latter's consent, with the primary aim of preventing or stopping widespread suffering or human rights abuses.

Internal sovereignty is the state’s absolute authority within its borders. A state with strong internal sovereignty has control over its population, power to make and enforce laws, and public acceptance of the state's authority.

Sovereignty is a foundational concept in global politics, referring to the authority of a state to govern itself without external interference.