Some Aspects of National Sovereignty in the International Geopolitical Context

Abstract

National sovereignty, in the current geopolitical context, is a complex and dynamic concept, subject to contradictory forces. On the one hand, globalization, economic interdependence, the rise of non-state actors (multinational corporations, international organizations, NGOs) and transnational challenges (climate change, pandemics, terrorism) tend to erode the authority of the nation state and impose some form of cooperation and even limitation of sovereignty in certain areas. On the other hand, we are witnessing a reaffirmation of the importance of the nation state as the main guarantor of the security, cultural identity and well-being of its citizens. Recent events, such as the war in Ukraine, have underlined the importance of borders, territorial integrity and the state's ability to defend its national interests. Populist and nationalist tendencies in many countries also reflect the desire of segments of the population to regain control over decisions that affect their lives and to limit the influence of external actors. Therefore, using the methods of legal scientific research, this study aims, starting from the definition of the concept of sovereignty, to analyze the evolution of the concept of sovereignty, focusing on the new geopolitical context created after the Munich Conference of 14-16 February 2025. At the same time, the study analyzes the concept of national sovereignty with reference to Romanian doctrine and jurisprudence and highlights the need to identify theories and practices regarding the concept of national sovereignty, adapted to the current geopolitical situation. In this context, the study presents the particularities of the R2P (responsibility to protect) doctrine.

Received: 20 April 2025 / Accepted: 19 June 2025 / Published: 25 June 2025