Declarative Theory of Statehood Law and Legal Definition
The declarative theory of statehood is one of the several theories describing when a state should be recognized as sovereign. According to declarative theory, the political existence of the state is independent of recognition by the other states. The theory defines a state as a person in international law if it has:
a. a defined territory;
b. a permanent population;
c. a government; and
d. a capacity to enter into relations with other states.
