Nonincursion

Nonincursion is a term used primarily in political science, international relations, and military strategy to describe the principle or practice of avoiding military intervention or entry into the territory of another sovereign state. It emphasizes the importance of respecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity, suggesting that external forces should not cross national borders for military purposes without explicit consent or a clear and universally recognized justification, such as self-defense under international law.

The concept of nonincursion is closely related to the broader principle of non-intervention, which prohibits states from interfering in the internal affairs of other states. While non-intervention can encompass a wider range of activities, including political or economic interference, nonincursion specifically addresses the physical presence of military forces within another country's borders. Adherence to nonincursion is seen as a cornerstone of international stability and a means to prevent escalation of conflicts. Violations of this principle can lead to severe diplomatic repercussions, sanctions, and potentially wider armed conflict. International law, particularly the UN Charter, strongly supports the prohibition of the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, which underpins the norm of nonincursion.