Sovereignty is a crucial concept in political science and international relations. It signifies the ultimate authority of a state to control its own affairs, including the creation and enforcement of laws, the management of its economy, and the conduct of foreign relations. This principle ensures that a state can operate independently and is not subject to the control of other states or international entities. Sovereignty is recognized by international law, which acknowledges the rights of states to govern themselves without external interference. The concept is foundational to the existence of nation-states and is often associated with the idea of territorial integrity and political independence.