NATions

A nation is a collective of people who share common attributes such as language, culture, ethnicity, history, and often a sense of shared identity or destiny. While the terms “nation” and “state” are sometimes used interchangeably, a nation refers primarily to the sociocultural bonds among its members, whereas a state denotes a political entity with defined territory, government, and sovereignty. Nations may exist within the borders of a single state, span multiple states, or lack any recognised sovereign territory.

The concept of a nation emerged in the early modern period as peoples began to articulate collective aspirations for self‑determination and political representation. National identity is often reinforced through symbols, myths, education, and institutions that promote a common narrative. In many cases, the desire for political autonomy has led nations to seek statehood, resulting in the creation of new countries or the restructuring of existing ones.

International law recognises the right of peoples to self‑determination, but the criteria for what constitutes a nation remain fluid. Some scholars emphasize objective elements such as shared language and culture, while others stress the subjective feeling of belonging. Nations can be classified in various ways, for example as “civic” (based on shared political values) or “ethnic” (based on ancestry and cultural traits).

In contemporary geopolitics, nations continue to shape global affairs, influencing diplomacy, migration, and conflict resolution. Their enduring significance lies in the powerful role of collective identity in organising societies and guiding political aspirations.