Üleriigilised

Üleriigilised is a term used in political science and public discourse to describe governance arrangements, practices, or organisations that operate above the level of individual nation-states. The word is Estonian in origin, formed from üleriigi- meaning "supranational" or "above the state" and the suffix -lised. In English-language scholarship the concept is often rendered as supranational governance, though usage varies by author.

Core features associated with üleriigilised systems include delegation of authority to common institutions, binding rules across borders, and mechanisms for implementing decisions among multiple states. Such arrangements may involve centralized rule-making, dispute settlement, and cross-border policy coordination, sometimes with shared budgets. These traits are typical of regional integrations, especially the European Union, but the term can also describe broader multilateral regimes.

Origins and usage: The concept appears in Estonian political science and public administration as debates about deeper regional or global cooperation unfold. While most use is in Estonian-language texts, the idea is also employed in international discussions as a shorthand for governance forms that operate above states, rather than merely across them. Boundaries among supranational, intergovernmental, and transnational arrangements remain debated.

Criticism and debate: Proponents argue that üleriigilised arrangements improve cooperation, stability, and collective security. Critics worry about loss of sovereignty, democratic legitimacy, and accountability when power is concentrated in technocratic or supranational bodies. Debates focus on legitimacy, representation, and the appropriate balance between national autonomy and supranational governance.

Related concepts include supranationalism, sovereignty, and transnational governance.