Westphalian System

The Westphalian System refers to a model of international relations established after the Peace of Westphalia in 1648. It emphasizes the principles of state sovereignty and territorial integrity, meaning that countries have authority over their own territories without outside interference. This system shaped modern nation-states, establishing them as the primary actors in global politics. Each state has defined borders and is recognized as equal, leading to organized interactions based on diplomacy and international law, rather than religious or imperial dominance. The Westphalian framework continues to influence how nations interact today.