Sovereigntism is a political ideology that emphasizes the principle of sovereignty, which is the full right and power of a governing body to govern itself without any interference from outside sources or bodies. This ideology is often associated with nationalism and can be seen as a reaction against perceived threats to national sovereignty, such as globalization, supranational organizations, and immigration.
Sovereigntists argue for the primacy of national laws over international agreements and institutions. They often oppose the transfer of powers from national governments to international bodies like the United Nations or the European Union. They believe that each nation should have the right to determine its own laws, policies, and destiny, free from outside influence or control.
The history of sovereigntism is complex and varied, as it has been adopted and adapted by different countries and political movements throughout history. The concept of sovereignty itself dates back to the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, which ended the Thirty Years' War in Europe and established the principle of state sovereignty. However, the modern form of sovereigntism as a political ideology emerged in the late 20th century, in response to the increasing power of supranational organizations and the perceived erosion of national sovereignty.
In recent years, sovereigntism has gained prominence in various parts of the world, often in conjunction with populist movements. It has been a driving force behind major political events such as the Brexit vote in the United Kingdom, where proponents argued for the need to reclaim sovereignty from the European Union. Similarly, in the United States, the Trump administration's "America First" policy can be seen as a form of sovereigntism, emphasizing national interests and sovereignty over international cooperation.
However, sovereigntism is not limited to any one political ideology or spectrum. It can be found on both the right and the left, and in both developed and developing countries. While it is often associated with nationalism and protectionism, it can also be linked to movements for self-determination and resistance to imperialism. Despite its varied manifestations, the core principle of sovereigntism remains the same: the belief in the absolute sovereignty of the nation-state.
