microstate

politics

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July 16, 2026

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A microstate is a nation that is extremely small in both area and population. These are distinct from micronations, which are entities that claim to be independent states but lack international recognition of their sovereignty.12

Microstates, such as Liechtenstein or Vatican City, have their sovereignty internationally recognized despite their small size. The concept of a micronation emerged in the late 20th century to describe entities that pretend to have sovereignty but are not recognized by the global community. Micronations can vary greatly, with some claiming territory and others existing purely in concept, often issuing their own citizenship, currency, or passports without legal standing.2

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micronation
Micronations are distinct from microstates, such as Liechtenstein or Vatican City, whose sovereignty over extremely small territories and populations is internationally recognized.
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Micronations are distinct from microstates, such as Liechtenstein or Vatican City, whose sovereignty over extremely small territories and populations is internationally recognized.
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diplomacy
The United Nations and the changing world order
…trend continued until even “microstates” of small area and population became sovereign. (For example, at its independence in 1968, Nauru had a population of fewer than 7,000.)
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…trend continued until even “microstates” of small area and population became sovereign. (For example, at its independence in 1968, Nauru had a population of fewer than 7,000.)
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