In today’s world, the concept of sovereignty is increasingly complex and blurred. In Parliament on Tuesday, Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, whose 2019 election was recently validated by the Privy Council, emphasized Mauritius’ full sovereignty over its 2.3 million square kilometers of economic exclusive zone. This assertion comes at a time when the global stage is witnessing significant shifts in sovereignty dynamics.

What role does sovereignty play in a world that requires collective responses to challenges such as food and health crises, global pandemics, climate change, and the fight against terrorism and money laundering? This question is particularly pertinent given the frequent limitations of the United Nations.

The end of the Cold War and ensuing globalization have reshaped the world, often to the detriment of smaller countries like Mauritius. The Brexit saga serves as a prime example of this shifting landscape.

London will struggle to negotiate without the support of the European juggernaut, especially in light of the rising powers of China, India, and the United States.

On the other hand, the story of the Chagos archipelago highlights the complex interplay of history, politics, and law in defining sovereignty. The legal question of ownership over the Chagos remains unresolved, despite decades of diplomatic wins.

Former President of the United Nations Security Council, Kishore Mahbubani, has pointed out the inadequacies of the UN in addressing global challenges. The UN’s inability to effectively intervene in conflicts like the Ukraine War or manage the rise of the East highlights the need for a reevaluation of sovereignty in today’s interconnected world.

Sovereignty in the 21st century requires a balance between national interests and global cooperation. The Treaty of Westphalia of 1648, which established the principles of sovereignty, non-intervention, and state equality, has been eroded by globalization, supranationality, and humanitarian intervention. The rise of non-state actors, including global terrorist threats, climate change challenges, and the influence of international organizations, has challenged the traditional concept of state sovereignty.

Furthermore, the expanding interaction with NGOs and the sometimes sovereigntyenhancing, sometimes sovereigntylimiting relationship with intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) highlights the complex dynamics at play. Supranationality has eroded certain norms of national sovereignty, while humanitarian intervention has created tension between the norms of state sovereignty and the protection of human rights.

The end of the Cold War has prompted many regions to redefine their nationhood, with fifteen new nations emerging from the Soviet Union alone. The modern history of imperialism, especially following World War I, has significantly shaped the current landscape of nationhood.

As we reflect on the past and present challenges to sovereignty, including the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict and the Ukraine War, it is clear that the concept of sovereignty will remain dynamic. It is incumbent upon us to approach sovereignty with a fresh perspective, especially when we discuss Diego Garcia and Agalega…