What principle underlies the concept of state sovereignty?

The principle that underlies the concept of state sovereignty is the right of states to govern without external interference. This foundational aspect of sovereignty emphasizes that states have the authority to make decisions and enforce laws within their own borders without outside influence or coercion.

State sovereignty is a key element of international relations, as it establishes the notion that each state is equal and has the rights to determine its own political, economic, and cultural systems. This autonomy is crucial for maintaining order and stability in the international system, as it allows states to coexist with respect for one another's independence.

Other concepts, while important to international relations, do not encapsulate the essence of state sovereignty as directly. For example, mutual cooperation among countries highlights a collaborative approach rather than the individual autonomy that sovereignty entails. Likewise, the responsibility to intervene in humanitarian crises reflects a notion of collective action that can sometimes conflict with the principle of sovereignty, leading to debates about when and how external actors should intervene in the affairs of a sovereign state. Lastly, the equality of all nations in international law pertains to the legal status and rights of states but does not specifically address the governing authority that is central to the notion of sovereignty. Hence, the correct answer effectively captures the essence of state sovereignty.