What term is used to describe the official capacity to govern a defined territory with recognized borders?

Sovereignty is the term used to define the official capacity to govern a specific territory with recognized borders. It implies that a state has the ultimate authority over its internal and external affairs without interference from other states. This recognition of governance is fundamental to the concept of statehood in international relations, as it establishes the legitimacy of a governing body and its right to create and enforce laws, conduct foreign policy, and engage in diplomatic relations.

Maintaining sovereignty is critical for the stability and functionality of any state, as it allows for the establishment of political order, the protection of rights, and the pursuit of a nation's interests on the global stage. This concept is pivotal in discussions about international law, human rights, and global governance, as it intersects with issues of territorial integrity and the non-interference principle in international relations.