A quasi-state (sometimes referred to as a state-like entity or proto-state]) is a political entity that does not represent a fully institutionalised or autonomous sovereign state.
According to some experts, these are the states which require the support of the international community to survive or exist instead of surviving or existing on their own.
Quasi-states typically have some degree of control over a defined territory and population, and they may have their own government, military, and legal system.
Quasi-states often face challenges in terms of legitimacy, as they are not fully recognized by the international community and may have limited access to international institutions and resources. However, they may also provide a degree of stability and governance in areas where the central government is weak or ineffective.
Examples of Quasi-State
- Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been recognized as a sovereign state by the international community.
- Northern Cyprus – A state recognized only by Turkey, which occupies the northern part of the island of Cyprus.
- Abkhazia – A breakaway region of Georgia that declared independence in 1999 and is recognized by Russia, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Nauru, and Syria, but not by most other countries.
- South Ossetia – Another breakaway region of Georgia that declared independence in 1990 and is recognized by Russia, Nicaragua, Nauru, and Syria, but not by most other countries.
- Transnistria – A breakaway region of Moldova that declared independence in 1990 and has its own government, military, and legal system, but is not recognized by the international community.
