The concept of sovereignty, a cornerstone of the modern international order, is facing a profound crisis. Originally formulated in Europe to ensure peace and security on the continent, its core tenet—that one sovereign must not interfere in the affairs of another—is under unprecedented strain in today's interconnected and conflict-ridden world.
The European Origins of a Global Principle
Sovereignty, as a formal political doctrine, has its roots deeply embedded in European history. It emerged primarily as a mechanism to establish peace and stability within Europe following centuries of devastating wars. At its purest, this interpretation establishes a clear boundary: a sovereign state possesses ultimate authority within its own borders and must not intervene in the domestic jurisdiction of another sovereign state. This principle of non-intervention became the bedrock of treaties and the Westphalian system, aiming to create a balance of power by recognizing the inviolability of national territories.
The Modern Challenge to Non-Intervention
In the 21st century, this traditional view is challenged from multiple fronts. Globalization has intertwined economies and security interests, making absolute non-interference increasingly difficult. Issues like cross-border terrorism, climate change, cyber warfare, and humanitarian crises demand collective action, often blurring the lines of sovereign jurisdiction. Critics argue that a rigid adherence to non-intervention can enable human rights abuses and allow threats to fester, spilling over borders. Conversely, interventions, even for ostensibly noble causes, are frequently accused of being veiled attempts at geopolitical dominance, undermining the very sovereignty they claim to protect.
Navigating the Sovereignty Dilemma
The crisis, therefore, lies in balancing the legitimate right of states to self-determination with the international community's responsibility to address transnational threats. The tension is visible in ongoing global conflicts and diplomatic standoffs. The principle is constantly being tested, reinterpreted, and, at times, blatantly violated. As noted by commentator Sundaram Rajasimman, the fragility of this foundational idea is more apparent than ever. The world is grappling with a critical question: how can the international system uphold order and human security without dismantling the sovereign equality of states? The answer remains elusive, ensuring that the crisis of sovereignty will continue to be a defining theme of global politics in 2026 and beyond.
