What does the term sovereignty refer to?

Sovereignty refers to the authority of a state to govern itself and make decisions within its own borders without external interference. This concept emphasizes a state's independence and power to establish laws, policies, and governance structures as it sees fit. A sovereign state has the ultimate authority over its territory and the people within it, and is not subject to the control or dominion of other nations or external entities.

The emphasis here is on the capacity of a state to manage its own internal and external affairs without outside coercion or influence, which is a fundamental principle in international law and relations. Understanding sovereignty is crucial for grasping how nations interact on the global stage, as it affirms each nation's right to self-determination and political autonomy.

The other options do not encapsulate the full meaning of sovereignty. While trading with other nations, controlling global affairs, and committing to treaties can involve sovereign states, they do not define the essence of what sovereignty truly represents. Instead, they reflect different aspects of international relations or diplomatic engagement, rather than the inherent right and ability to govern independently.