Understanding the Westphalian Paradigm: Principles of Sovereignty, Equality, and Non-Intervention in International Relations

Westphalian Paradigm

This is a principle of international law that each nation-state has sovereignty over its territory and domestic affairs without outside interference on the principle of not interfering with anothernation’s sovereignty or domestic affairs.

The Westphalian Paradigm refers to the principles and norms that underlie the modern international system that emerged following the Peace of Westphalia in 1648 at the end of the Thirty Years’ War. The Westphalian system marked the transition from a medieval to a modern state system by establishing principles of sovereignty of states, non-intervention in the internal affairs of other states, and equality between states.

The Westphalian Paradigm emphasized the state as the fundamental actor in international relations, with the principle of sovereignty implying that the state has the exclusive right to govern within its territorial boundaries without external interference. This principle has been considered a cornerstone of the modern state system and has led to the development of international norms that have regulated state behavior in a variety of areas, including diplomacy, trade, human rights, and conflict resolution.

The Westphalian Paradigm has also contributed to the development of international law and institutions, such as the United Nations, that reflect the principle of sovereign equality among states. However, the Westphalian system has been challenged by globalization, the rise of non-state actors, and the increasing interconnectedness of global issues. As a result, some scholars argue that the Westphalian system needs to be adapted to accommodate these new challenges and incorporate new actors and issues.

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