The concept of national sovereignty is a fundamental principle in international law, though there isn’t a single, universally accepted legal definition. Think of it as the cornerstone of a nation’s independence. Internally, it signifies a state’s supreme authority. The government has the exclusive power to create and enforce laws within its borders.

This allows a nation to establish its own legal and social framework, shaping its unique identity. Externally, national sovereignty translates to a state’s freedom from external control. A sovereign nation has the right to govern itself without undue interference from other countries or international organizations. This principle forms the foundation of international relations, where countries interact as equals on the world stage.

While the concept of sovereignty is complex, understanding it’s a crucial aspect of immigration law. National sovereignty empowers each country to determine its own immigration policies, establishing criteria for who can enter and reside within its borders.