Relative Sovereignty of the Twenty First Century

Authors

Ivan Simonovic

Abstract

The quality of state sovereignty in the contemporary world, both in internal and external relations, has fundamentally changed. Sovereignty of the state in international relations is changing from a system of international relations based on concentration of power in states alone into a system of power-sharing and balance between state and non-state actors. The principle of noninterference in the "internal affairs of a state" is being challenged by the international community's belief in its "responsibility to protect" the world's citizens from persecution, large-scale human rights abuses, and other sufferings. However rational, the process of increasing power-sharing between states, international organizations, NGOs, and multinational corporations in international relations has met serious opposition not only from small, young states that fear loss of their own sovereignty, but also from the United States. This policy is harmful for both the United States and the emerging world order because contemporary global challenges require global responses. Globalization and increased mutual dependence should be accompanied by the spread of global ethics, based on the principles of tolerance, mutual respect, and above all, solidarity.

Recommended Citation

Ivan Simonovic, Relative Sovereignty of the Twenty First Century, 25 Hastings Int'l & Comp. L. Rev. 371 (2002).
Available at: https://repository.uclawsf.edu/hastings_international_comparative_law_review/vol25/iss3/6