Souverainism, also known as sovereigntism, is a political ideology that emphasizes the principle of national sovereignty, asserting that the power of a nation is vested in its people and that this power should not be compromised or diluted by international entities or agreements. It is often associated with nationalism and can be seen as a reaction against globalization, internationalism, and supranational institutions such as the European Union.
The roots of souverainism can be traced back to the concept of national sovereignty that emerged in the 17th century with the Treaty of Westphalia, which ended the Thirty Years' War in Europe. This treaty established the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations, effectively giving birth to the modern system of nation-states.
In the 20th century, souverainism gained prominence as a reaction against the increasing power of international institutions and the perceived erosion of national sovereignty. This was particularly evident in the aftermath of World War II, with the establishment of the United Nations and other international bodies. Souverainism was also a response to the process of European integration, which saw the transfer of certain powers from national governments to the European Union.
In recent years, souverainism has been associated with populist movements and political parties in various countries. These movements often advocate for a return to national sovereignty and the rejection of international agreements or institutions that they perceive as infringing upon national sovereignty. They argue that decisions affecting a nation should be made by its own people, rather than by international bodies or foreign powers.
However, souverainism is a complex and multifaceted ideology that can take different forms in different contexts. It can be associated with both left-wing and right-wing political movements, and its proponents can have diverse views on issues such as immigration, trade, and foreign policy. Despite these differences, all forms of souverainism share a common emphasis on the importance of national sovereignty and the power of the people in determining their nation's destiny.
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