State sovereignty refers to the authority of a state to govern itself without external interference. It means that a state has the power to make its own laws, control its territory, and manage its affairs independently. This concept is fundamental in international relations, as it establishes the legal framework within which states operate and interact with one another. The principle of state sovereignty is often linked to the idea of territorial integrity, which protects a state's borders from outside influence. It is also a key aspect of organizations like the United Nations, which promotes respect for the sovereignty of its member states while facilitating cooperation on global issues.