The Doctrine of Recognition

The Doctrine of Recognition is a legal principle used by courts to determine whether a foreign government, organization, or entity is officially acknowledged as legitimate and entitled to certain rights or privileges within a jurisdiction. Recognition signifies scholarly acceptance, giving the entity certain legal capacities, such as entering treaties or owning property. It is a formal act that reflects respect for the entity’s sovereignty or authority. Recognition can be either **de jure** (formal, legal recognition) or **de facto** (recognition based on factual presence). This doctrine helps clarify legal relationships and facilitates diplomatic or international interactions.