Recognition of Sovereignty is the formal acknowledgment by one state of another state's territorial claims and governing authority over a region. This process is crucial in international relations as it legitimises a state's control and facilitates diplomatic interactions. Without recognition, a state's ability to engage in treaties, trade agreements, and international organisations is severely limited. Recognition can be explicit or implicit and often involves complex political considerations. It serves as a foundational element in the establishment of international order and stability.

Recognition of Sovereignty matters because it underpins the international legal framework that governs state interactions. It ensures that states can exercise their rights and responsibilities within the global community. Without recognition, states may face isolation, economic sanctions, or conflict, impacting global peace and security. It also affects the legitimacy of governments and their ability to represent their populations on the world stage.

Scholars of international relations argue that recognition of sovereignty is a cornerstone of the Westphalian system, which defines statehood and territorial integrity. Academic consensus suggests that without recognition, states cannot fully participate in the international system, affecting global governance and cooperation. This concept is essential for understanding the dynamics of power, legitimacy, and authority in global politics.