Power shifts in the international system and their impact on state sovereignty: Non-state actors as a model

Abstract

Since its establishment, international systems have gone through many stages, during which they witnessed many developments and changes, and the most prominent of these transformations took place in the early nineties of the last century, coinciding with the emergence of globalization. These transformations have led to the emergence of new non-state actors. Non-states actors, such as non-governmental organizations and multinational companies, have begun to practice supranational roles that have contributed greatly to the decline in the sovereignty of states restricting the state’s ability to manage its internal affairs. In addition, other actors that specialize in technology have emerged and gained control over virtual sphere through the export and promotion of ideas. Also, the emergence of violent actors (terrorist groups) that enjoy smooth mobility in a globalized world have contributed in the destabilization of the security and stability of certain fragile regions. Therefore, all of these factors have clearly contributed to the decline in the sovereignty of states, especially in countries that suffer from instability.