nationstatewhere

Nationstatewhere is a term used in political theory and worldbuilding to describe the idea or framework in which a polity asserts exclusive sovereignty over a defined geographic space on behalf of a culturally or nationally distinct population. It foregrounds the alignment among nation, state, and territory as a coherent unit.

The term combines nation-state with locational emphasis and has appeared in niche online discussions and worldbuilding guides rather than in formal academic literature.

In this framework, the “nation” refers to the culturally or ethnically defined community, the “state” to the governing authority, and the “where” to the geographical and jurisdictional space. It raises questions about citizenship, rights, minority inclusion, territorial integrity, and governance transitions such as secession or reunification.

Proponents use nationstatewhere to analyze or design ideal-type states, while fiction writers use it to craft plausible political settings. It also informs debates on borders, migration, and self-determination by highlighting how the geography of rule shapes policy.

Critics argue that the concept may be essentialist or aspirational, failing to reflect multinational realities and global interdependence. Real-world borders often require flexible governance, minority protections, and supranational arrangements that the term does not easily accommodate.

See also: Nation-state; Ethno-nationalism; Civic nationalism; Self-determination; Territorial integrity; Citizenship; Political geography.