(a) Describe the term State. (b) What are the features of a State?

(a) Meaning of the State

The State is a politically organised body of people occupying a definite territory, having an organised government, and possessing sovereignty (supreme power) that is free from external control. It is a permanent political association that exercises authority over all persons and groups within its territory and has the power to make and enforce laws.

(b) Features (elements) of a State

1. Population: There must be a body of people, of no fixed number, living together within the state.
2. Territory: There must be a definite geographical area with recognised boundaries, including land, water and airspace.
3. Government: There must be an organised machinery through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed and carried out.
4. Sovereignty: The state must possess supreme power over its internal affairs and be free from external control (internal and external sovereignty).
5. Permanence: The state is a continuing and enduring institution; it does not die even though governments change.