Recognition

How it is used

States 'grant', 'extend' or 'withhold' recognition, and the verb is 'recognise' (US 'recognize'). Lawyers debate whether recognition creates a state (the constitutive theory) or only confirms that it exists (the declaratory theory). Recognition is often followed by diplomatic relations.

Example sentences

1. The new state received recognition from more than 100 countries within a year.

2. Recognition of a government is different from recognition of a state.

3. The ministry said that recognition would follow once certain conditions were met.

Common collocations

• diplomatic recognition
• grant recognition
• withhold recognition
• recognition of a state
• international recognition

Related terms

• sovereigntyThe full right and power of a state to govern its own territory and people without outside interference; a basic principle of the modern international system.
• diplomatic relationsThe official connection between two states that allows them to exchange ambassadors, open embassies and deal with each other through normal diplomatic channels.
• self-determinationThe right of a people to choose its own political future and form of government, and to shape its own economic, social and cultural development.
• international lawThe body of rules that governs relations between states and other international actors, based mainly on treaties, custom and general principles of law.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

• recognition · Management & Leadership

More terms: International Law & Human Rights

• human rights
• territorial integrity
• International Court of Justice
• customary international law
• refugee
• asylum
• non-intervention