5.2 Sovereignty and the Rule of Law

Sovereignty defined

Sovereignty is the supreme, absolute authority of a state to govern itself and its territory without outside interference. It has two dimensions: internal sovereignty (control over domestic affairs, laws, and citizens) and external sovereignty (recognition by other states and independence from foreign control). Globalization, supranational bodies like the EU, and internal conflict can challenge sovereignty.

Rule of law

Rule of law means laws apply equally to all citizens and officials, are transparent, predictable, and enforced fairly by independent institutions like courts. It limits arbitrary government power and protects rights. Weak rule of law—seen in states with corruption, patronage, or unchecked executives—undermines legitimacy and development.

Threats and challenges

Sovereignty and rule of law face threats from weak states unable to enforce laws, failed states lacking control over territory, civil conflict, terrorism, and corruption. Countries like Nigeria and Russia illustrate uneven rule of law, while devolved regions (e.g., the UK) show sovereignty can be shared or contested internally.

Key terms

Sovereignty

The supreme, absolute authority of a state to govern itself without outside interference.

Internal sovereignty

A state's control over its domestic affairs, laws, and citizens.

External sovereignty

Recognition by other states and independence from foreign control.

Rule of law

Principle that laws apply equally and predictably to all citizens and officials, enforced by independent institutions.

Failed/weak state

A state unable to enforce laws or maintain control over its territory, undermining sovereignty and rule of law.

Try an AP-style question

Rule by law differs from rule of law because under rule by law…

1. courts are independent
2. leaders are bound by law
3. citizens write laws
4. leaders use law as a tool