Konsep Kedaulatan dalam Negara Kesatuan: Tinjauan Historis dan Filosofis

In the intricate tapestry of international relations and political science, the concept of sovereignty within a unitary state stands as a cornerstone, shaping the contours of governance, law, and the interaction between nations. This exploration delves into the historical and philosophical underpinnings of sovereignty, tracing its evolution and its pivotal role in the formation and functioning of unitary states. By dissecting the layers of this concept, we gain insights into the foundational principles that govern nations and the intricate dance of power and authority that defines the state's relationship with its citizens and other entities.

The Historical Genesis of Sovereignty

The journey of sovereignty as a concept begins in the smoldering ruins of the medieval feudal system, where power was fragmented and distributed among various lords and nobles. The Peace of Westphalia in 1648 marked a turning point, laying the groundwork for the modern state system by endorsing the principle of territorial sovereignty. This pivotal moment in history underscored the notion that states had exclusive authority within their borders, free from external interference. The evolution of sovereignty was closely tied to the emergence of the nation-state, where the consolidation of power under a central authority was seen as essential for the development and maintenance of order and security.

Philosophical Foundations of Sovereignty

Philosophically, sovereignty has been a subject of intense debate and scrutiny, with thinkers like Jean Bodin and Thomas Hobbes contributing significantly to its conceptualization. Bodin, in the 16th century, was among the first to articulate the idea of sovereignty as the absolute and perpetual power of a state, a notion that was revolutionary at the time. Hobbes, on the other hand, introduced a social contract theory in the 17th century, arguing that in the absence of a sovereign power to impose order, life would be "nasty, brutish, and short." These philosophical discourses laid the groundwork for understanding sovereignty not just as a principle of external autonomy but also as an internal mechanism for ensuring order and stability within the state.

Sovereignty in the Unitary State

In the context of a unitary state, sovereignty manifests as the centralization of power, where the central government holds the authority to govern the territory and its inhabitants. This model contrasts with federal systems, where power is distributed among various levels of government. The unitary state's appeal lies in its simplicity and potential for uniform policy implementation and administration. However, this centralization of power also raises questions about the balance between authority and liberty, and the extent to which the central government can or should accommodate regional diversity and local governance.

Challenges and Contemporary Perspectives

The concept of sovereignty, while foundational, is not without its challenges in the modern world. The forces of globalization, the rise of supranational entities like the European Union, and the increasing emphasis on human rights and international law have all posed questions to the traditional notions of state sovereignty. These developments invite a re-examination of sovereignty, suggesting a need for a more nuanced understanding that can accommodate the realities of interdependence and the global community's shared responsibilities. The tension between maintaining state sovereignty and embracing global cooperation remains a central debate in political science and international relations.

In retracing the historical and philosophical journey of sovereignty, we uncover the layers that have shaped this concept and its application within unitary states. From its roots in the aftermath of feudal fragmentation to its philosophical conceptualization by thinkers like Bodin and Hobbes, sovereignty has evolved to become a defining principle of statehood and governance. The unitary state, with its centralized model of power, embodies the sovereignty principle, navigating the delicate balance between authority and liberty. However, as the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the traditional notions of sovereignty are challenged, prompting a reevaluation of how states interact with each other and with supranational entities. This exploration not only highlights the enduring significance of sovereignty but also underscores the complexities and nuances that define its role in the contemporary geopolitical landscape.