(a) Explain the concept of the sovereignty of a State. (b) State any five factors that limit the sovereignty of a state.

Answer Details

(a) Concept of the sovereignty of a State

Sovereignty is the supreme power or authority of a state to make and enforce laws within its territory and to conduct its affairs free from external control. It is the highest legal authority in a state, above which there is no other power. Sovereignty has two dimensions:

• Internal sovereignty: the supreme authority of the state over all persons, groups and institutions within its territory, giving it the exclusive right to make and enforce laws.
• External sovereignty: the independence of the state in its relations with other states, meaning it is not subject to the control of any foreign power.

Sovereignty is generally described as absolute, permanent, indivisible, all-comprehensive and exclusive. It is the mark that distinguishes a state from other associations.

(b) Five factors that limit the sovereignty of a state

1. International law and treaties: obligations under international agreements and conventions restrict what a state may lawfully do.
2. Membership of international organisations: bodies such as the United Nations, ECOWAS and the African Union impose rules and decisions that member states must obey.
3. World public opinion: the pressure of global opinion and diplomatic reactions can compel a state to modify its conduct.
4. Economic dependence: reliance on foreign aid, loans and trade, and the conditions attached by donors and bodies like the IMF and World Bank, limit a state's freedom of action.
5. The constitution and fundamental human rights: the provisions of the constitution and the guaranteed rights of citizens place legal limits on the exercise of state power.