Sovereign Equality of States within the United Nations: Principles, Practices, and Paradoxes

Faniriana RAKOTOZAFY RAVAONOELITIANA; Josette Aline RASOAFARA

Sovereign Equality of States within the United Nations: Principles, Practices, and Paradoxes

Authors

Faniriana RAKOTOZAFY RAVAONOELITIANA Faculté de Droit et des Sciences Politiques, University of Antananarivo, Madagascar
Josette Aline RASOAFARA Université de Paris Cité, France

Keywords:

International Law, International Relations, Sovereign Equality, State Sovereignty, United Nations (UN)

Abstract

The principle of sovereign equality is a cornerstone of international law and fundamental for the proper functioning of the concert of nations, ensuring respect for interstate relations and the maintenance of international peace and security. The United Nations (UN) places this principle at the forefront of all others outlined in its Charter. This study aims to critically examine the application of sovereign equality within the UN framework, analyzing both its formal recognition and the challenges to its practical implementation. Employing a doctrinal and analytical approach, this research scrutinizes key provisions of the UN Charter, historical developments from the Treaties of Westphalia to the League of Nations, and relevant international legal instruments. It investigates how the UN has sought to ensure effective respect for this principle, while acknowledging that its strict application is often unfeasible in the contemporary global landscape. Findings reveal that despite the UN's commitment to sovereign equality, there are instances where the principle appears to be poorly respected or even disregarded within the organization. This is particularly evident in areas such as the structure of the Security Council, notably the right of veto, which generates claims and proposals for reform of this universal international organization responsible for global peace and security. The analysis highlights inherent tensions between the theoretical ideal of equality and the practical realities of power dynamics among states. In conclusion, while an absolute application of sovereign equality might be impossible, its consistent erosion threatens the UN's legitimacy and effectiveness. The principle remains indispensable for maintaining international order, but its practical challenges necessitate ongoing debate and potential reforms to strengthen its effective implementation for a more equitable global governance.

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Sovereign Equality of States within the United Nations: Principles, Practices, and Paradoxes