Topic 2: Sovereignty: Reality or Mirage

Outline

A. Introduction

1. Elements of statehood in a globalized world
2. What is sovereignty?
3. Thesis statement

B. The Concept of Sovereignty

C. Facts Prove that Sovereignty is a Mirage

1. Globalization erodes national borders;
a. Increasing role of multinational corporations

2. International institutions limit state sovereignty;
a. Rise of multilateral institutions

3. Human rights norms restrict state power;
a. International Human Rights Watch     

4. Economic interdependence undermines state self-sufficiency;
a. Multilateral trade agreements
b. Role of World Trade Organisation (WTO)

5. Non-state actors challenge state authority;
a. Terrorist organizations in the Middle East and other regions
b. ISIS, ISIL and other groups

6. International law limits state freedom;
a. Multilateral treaties and bilateral treaties
b. UN charter and Nuclear Non-proliferation treaty

7. Regional integration projects pool national sovereignty;
a. Belt and Road Initiative ( BRI)

8. The internet challenges state jurisdiction;
a. Information warfare in a digital era

9. Migration challenges state control;
a. Transnational laws empower foreign diaspora
b. Dual citizenship rules

10. Cybersecurity threats challenge state writ;
a. Cybersecurity issues are threatening state sovereignty

11. Climate change limits national autonomy;
a. Binding nature of global climate-related initiatives
b. Conference of Parties ( COP) and Other Provisions

12. Urbanization challenges state writ;
a. Increasing crime rate in high-population regions;
b. Snatching and robbery in Karachi

13. Global governance structures limit national decision-making;
a. Great power rivalry at the global level
b. Foreign policy decisions of developing countries like Bangladesh

D. Sovereignty is a Reality
1. The state is a supreme authority within its territory
2. International recognition implies a certain level of sovereignty

E. Conclusion