Westphalian sovereignty

Westphalian sovereignty refers to the concept of state sovereignty that emerged from the Peace of Westphalia treaties in 1648, which ended the Thirty Years' War in Europe. It established the principle that each nation-state has authority over its territory and domestic affairs, free from external interference. This means that countries govern themselves without outside influence, marking the beginning of the modern international system of states. The principle emphasizes respect for territorial integrity and political independence, which has become a foundational aspect of international relations and diplomacy today.