The Evolution of State Sovereignty under International Institutions Led to Less Use of Force and More Efficient Dispute Settlement

Abstract

The continuous amelioration of the principle of state sovereignty by international law and through international institutions has reduced states' use of military force since the Peace of Westphalia. This paper will focus on why and how the evolution of is state sovereignty contributes to the maintenance of peace and security around the globe. The first part will discuss why states respect and comply with the principle of equal sovereignty under the United Nations Charter. The second part reviews the amelioration of the right of self-defense and how it is significant in constraining aggressions. The third part will examine how the affirmation of independence and sovereignty helps resist colonial ideas and behaviors. Lastly, some challenges and controversies on the principle of sovereignty will be brought up and discussed.