European microstates. Microstates of Europe: list. Microstates of foreign Europe: list, description and characteristics. Microstates of Foreign Europe

Introduction.

On the modern political map of the world there are about 230 countries and territories, the vast majority of which are sovereign states.

There is no doubt that with such a large number of countries, there is a need for their grouping, which is carried out primarily on the basis of various quantitative criteria. But among other types of grouping, the most common is sorting countries by the size of their territory.

Based on the size of their territory, the ten largest countries are distinguished, with an area of more than 3 million km 2 each, which together make up the entire earth's landmass, but medium-sized and small countries predominate on the political map. There are also very tiny ones, which are usually called microstates. But, in essence, apart from their extremely small size, they are not much different from countries with a large territory.

Of course, each of the microstates, like any other country, has its own unique path of development and plays its own specific role in international political, economic and social relations. But it would be unfair to say that their influence on the modern world is as small as the size of the states themselves. Let's see this using the example of European microstates:

Andorra.

Principality of Andorra.

The largest microstate in Europe, located in southwestern Europe in the Eastern Pyrenees between France and Spain. The area of the territory is 465 km2. Administratively, it is divided into 7 communities (parishes), which have some administrative and financial independence. The capital is Andorra la Vella (23 thousand people). As of 1997, the population was over 65 thousand people, of which about 20 thousand were indigenous residents (Andorrans proper), the rest were foreigners: including about 29 thousand Spaniards, 7 thousand Portuguese, 5 thousand French . In terms of population growth (5%) it ranks first in Europe. The official language of the state is Catalan, but Spanish and French are also used. 99.1% of believers are Catholics. It does not have its own currency; the Spanish peseta and the French franc are in circulation.

In accordance with the constitution approved in a referendum on March 14, 1993, Andorra is a parliamentary principality. The heads of state (co-princes) are the Bishop of Urgell - Joan Marti Alanis (since 1974) and the President of France Jacques Chirac (since 1995). They are the guarantors of Andorra’s independence and its good neighborliness with Spain and France. According to the constitution, the co-rulers have the right to announce elections and referendums, appoint the head of government and members of the Constitutional Court, can sign a decree dissolving parliament, promulgate laws, and participate in the preparation of international treaties relating to internal security, defense and border issues.

The legislative body is the unicameral parliament - the General Council, which controls the activities of the government and approves the state budget, elects the chairman of the parliament (syndic) and his deputy, as well as the head of the government, who is politically responsible to the parliament. It is elected by direct universal suffrage for a term of 4 years (the last elections took place in February 1997) and consists of 28 deputies.

The highest executive body is the government. Head of government since 1994 is the leader of the Liberal Union M. Forne Molne.

Main political parties: Liberal Union (LU) - represented in parliament by 16 deputies, National Democratic Rally (NDR) - 6 deputies (leader - O. Ribas Reig), New Democracy (ND) - 2, National Democratic Initiative (NDI) - 2 , independent candidates - 2 deputies. At those held in December 1995. In the municipal elections, the greatest success was achieved by the NDO, whose representatives were elected alcaldes (mayors) of 4 out of 7 communities, including the capital.

The first mention of the territory of present-day Andorra dates back to 778, when the Visigoths, under the pressure of the Arabs, were forced to leave the city of Seu de Urgell and seek refuge in the Pyrenees Mountains. Emperor Charlemagne stopped the Arab advance further north and placed Andorra under the protection of the Bishop of Urgell (Spain). In the Middle Ages, Andorra was a fief mainly of the Counts of Foix and the Bishops of Urgell. In 1278 an agreement was concluded between them on joint sovereignty over Andorra (“act-perage”). Subsequently, the rights of the Comte de Foix passed to the French kings. Until 1993 Andorra was officially a feudal principality under the protectorate of Spain and France. The co-rulers of Andorra (the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell) jointly appointed vicar representatives with the powers of the head of state. Vicars had to be native residents of the principality and live on its territory. They swore an oath to respect the “Fundamental Act of Andorra” (a kind of constitution adopted in 1866). Since 1419 In Andorra there is a General Council - Parliament (the oldest in Europe after Iceland). In 1933. Universal suffrage for men was introduced, and in 1970. - for women.

1.06.93 The Treaty of Good Neighbourliness, Friendship and Cooperation was signed between the Kingdom of Spain, the French Republic and the Principality of Andorra, which consolidated the status of Andorra as a sovereign state. In 1993 Andorra was admitted to the UN, in 1994 - to the Council of Europe, UNESCO and UNICEF, in 1996. The country officially joined the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

The main sectors of the economy are trade and services for foreign tourists (7 - 8 million per year). An important source of income is the cultivation and processing of tobacco. There are light industry enterprises (primarily the production of cheese and mineral water), and handicraft production of souvenirs and jewelry. The population of mountain villages is engaged in cattle breeding (25 thousand sheep, 3 thousand goats). There are deposits of iron, tin, marble, granite, and medicinal thermal waters. There are 7 banks operating in the country. Exclusively road transport is used, the length of roads is 269 km.

The total number of workers and employees in 1996 – 31,755 people. Of these, 57% are employed in trade, the hotel business, the service sector, and banking services, 18% in construction, 13% in civil servants, and 3% in the manufacturing industry. Annual income per capita in 1997 amounted to 18,109 US dollars. Average monthly salary in 1996 – 178 thousand pesetas (@1300 US dollars).

Export volume for 1996 amounted to 60 million US dollars, imports - about 1 billion dollars.

Primary education is free and compulsory in all educational institutions until the age of 14. According to official data, the literacy rate in the country is 100%.

Several newspapers and magazines are published: the daily newspaper “Diary”

d’Andorra”, weekly “Poble Andorra”; There are 2 radio stations and a local TV channel “Andorra TV-Canal-33”.

Vatican.

Vatican City State.

An independent state and the center of the Roman Catholic Church, the residence of its head - the Pope. Located in the western part of Rome. It occupies an area of 0.44 km 2. In Rome and its environs, the Vatican owns three cathedrals: Santa Maria Maggiore, San Giovanni in Laterano and San Paolo, a number of palaces and villas with a total area of 0.7 km 2. The Vatican, in fact, does not have its own permanent population. The pope, the leaders of the Roman Curia, and employees of Vatican institutions live on its territory. At the end of 1997 There were 2,493 employees working in Vatican institutions, of whom 1,328 had religious rank.

The official languages of the state are Latin and Italian, the currency is the Italian lira. The Vatican also mints its own coins, intended mainly for numismatists.

From the point of view of government, the Vatican is a theocratic monarchy. Head of state - Pope (from October 16, 1978 - John Paul ǁ), Pole by nationality; before him, for several centuries, the papal throne was occupied exclusively by Italians. The Pope has legislative, executive and judicial powers. Its competence includes representing the Vatican in international relations, ratifying and denouncing international treaties and concordats, receiving diplomatic representatives and appointing Vatican representatives in other countries. The pope is elected for life by the College of Cardinals. Election is made, as a rule, from among the cardinals by secret ballot by a majority of at least one vote.

Highest advisory bodies: the Ecumenical Council of the Roman Catholic Church, the College of Cardinals and the Synod of Bishops.

The Ecumenical (or Vatican) Council convenes periodically every few decades to discuss the most important church problems. The last council was convened in 1962–1965. (21st Ecumenical Council or ǁ Vatican Council).

The College of Cardinals, an advisory body to the pope, meets to discuss the most important church affairs and to select the pope.

The role of the Vatican in international politics, its influence in the world is based on the huge number of Catholic believers - about 900 million people (including 280 million in Europe, 390 in America, 91 in Africa, 100 in Asia, in Australia and Oceania). The conductor of his policy is the Catholic clergy (1.9 million clergy, 0.5 million priests), about 2 thousand monastic orders, the largest of which are the orders of the Jesuits (26 thousand), Franciscans (45 thousand), Salesians , Capuchins, Benedictines, Dominicans.

The Vatican also acts through so-called secular Catholic organizations: trade unions, cultural, youth, women's and others. Many of these organizations belong to the conference of international Catholic organizations, whose work is coordinated by the Vatican Secretariat of State. Clerical political parties in different countries of the world are under a certain influence of the Vatican.

Recently, the role of the Vatican in international relations has been increasing, which is facilitated by the political dynamism of the current Pope John Paul, who has established personal contacts with many major statesmen and successfully, with noticeable resonance, conducts regular trips around the world. The Vatican emphasizes its interest in developing positive international processes; takes constructive positions on key international issues, including the elimination of weapons of mass destruction, the resolution of regional conflicts, and environmental protection.

The Vatican has three main sources of income: the Institute of Religious Affairs (in fact, the Vatican Bank, whose budget amounts to several billion US dollars annually), donations from believers and the financial and economic activities of its own enterprises.

The Holy See carries out extensive business activities, including financial ones. It has large real estate in Europe, Latin America, and cooperates with international banks and monopolies. About the Vatican's capital is invested in Italy. In Italy alone, he owns 482 thousand hectares of cultivated area, including several thousand hectares in the Rome region.

Groups of pilgrims from around the world and tourists arriving in the Vatican contribute to the budget of the Holy See. In 1997 this amount amounted to about 60 million US dollars.

The Vatican operates the Pontifical Academy of Sciences (established in 1603), which reports directly to the pope and aims to promote research in the fields of physics, mathematics and natural science.

The Vatican publishes hundreds of newspapers and magazines in various countries. The official source of the Vatican is the daily newspaper Osservatore Romano. The Papal Throne has its own press agency, the Agenzia Internationale Fidesz (AIF). Vatican Radio broadcasts in 37 languages to most countries of the world, including Russia and other CIS countries. There is a television center at the Vatican.

Liechtenstein.

Principality of Liechtenstein.

A state in central Europe, located between Switzerland and Austria. It occupies an area of 160 km2. The capital is the city of Vaduz. Administratively, it is divided into two historical parts: Oberland (Upper Liechtenstein) with its center in the city of Vaduz and Unterland (Lower Liechtenstein) with its center in the city of Schellenberg. It is divided into 11 communities. As of 1995 the population was 31 thousand. people, of which 64% are Liechtensteiners, 36% are foreigners, mainly Swiss (16%) and Austrians (8%). The official language is German. 87% of believers are Catholics. The monetary unit is the Swiss franc.

Liechtenstein is a constitutional monarchy. The country's constitution has been in force since 1921. The head of state is Prince Hans-Adam ΙΙ von Liechtenstein (acceded to the throne on September 13, 1989; he has actually ruled the country since 1984). The prince administers the state, has the right to convene and dissolve parliament, endorses legislative acts adopted by the Landtag (parliament), represents Liechtenstein in relations with other states, appoints civil servants, and has the right to pardon.

The legislative body (Landtag) consists of 25 deputies elected by direct secret ballot using a system of proportional representation: 15 deputies from Oberland and 10 deputies from Unterland, for a term of 4 years (elected in February 1997).

With the consent of parliament, the prince appoints the government. The head of government is M. Frick.

The history of the country begins with the emergence on the territory of modern Liechtenstein of the feudal possession of Schellenberg (12th century) and the county of Vaduz (14th century), which became part of the Holy Roman Empire and later became a protectorate of the Habsburg Empire. In 1699 Schellenberg and in 1712 Vaduz were sold to one of the close associates of the Austrian Emperor, the Prince of Liechtenstein. The date of formation of the state is considered to be August 15, 1719, when these possessions received the status of a principality

According to the agreement concluded in 1923. According to the Customs Union Treaty, Liechtenstein is an internal economic zone of Switzerland. Switzerland represents Liechtenstein's diplomatic and consular interests in relations with the vast majority of states.

Liechtenstein is an industrial-agrarian state. The economy is closely connected with foreign, mainly Swiss, capital and is focused mainly on exports (EU countries - 41%, Switzerland - 15% of exports). Over 75% of imports come from Switzerland. GNP – in per capita terms is 70 thousand Swiss francs.

Advanced industries are developing at the fastest pace: metalworking, instrument making, production of vacuum equipment, electronic systems, microprocessors. The textile, ceramics and pharmaceutical industries are traditionally developed. In terms of industrial production per 1 km2, the principality ranks first in Europe. 45.2% of the working population is employed in industry, and 45% in the service sector. More than 6 thousand people come to work in Liechtenstein every day from Switzerland and Austria.

Only 2% of workers are employed in agriculture. The main industry is livestock farming (75% of agricultural production).

Due to the low tax on placed capital and the absence of a profit tax, Liechtenstein was chosen as the place of registration of 40 thousand foreign companies, taxes on which account for a third of the country’s budget revenues. 10% of the budget comes from the issue of postage stamps. An important source of income is foreign tourism.

The principality does not have an army, higher educational institutions or a national radio and television agency.

Several newspapers are published, among which the most popular are Liechtensteiner Volksblatt (8 thousand copies) and Liechtensteiner Vaterland (8.5 thousand copies).

Monaco.

Principality of Monaco.

A state in Southern Europe, on the Mediterranean coast, surrounded on land by the territory of France. It occupies an area of 1.95 km 2 (of which 0.4 km 2 has been reclaimed from the sea in recent years). Administratively, it is divided into 4 merged districts - cities: Monaco, Monte Carlo, La Condamine and Fontvielle. The capital is the city of Monaco. As of 1997 the population was about 31.9 thousand people, of which about 6 thousand were indigenous people - Monegasques. people, French - about 13 thousand, Italians - about 5 thousand, English - over 1 thousand. The official language is French, but Monegasque, Italian, and English are also common. 95% of believers are Catholics. The monetary unit is the French franc; Monegasque francs are also in circulation (coins mainly for tourists and numismatists).

Monaco is a constitutional hereditary monarchy (principality). According to the 1962 constitution Monaco is "a sovereign and independent State within the framework of the general principles of international law and conventions with France." Since 1949 The head of state is Prince Rainier III, from the Grimaldi dynasty. Legislative power belongs to the prince and the National Council (parliament), consisting of 18 deputies elected for 5 years by universal suffrage. Monegasques have the right to vote. The last elections took place in 1998. executive power is exercised by the Government Council, headed by Minister of State M. Levesque (since 1997). In accordance with the agreement of 1918. between Monaco and France, 2 out of 4 seats in the Government Council are occupied by representatives of France (including the post of Minister of State). Officially, there are no political parties in Monaco; the main political organization is the National Democratic Union.

From the 15th century – principality, from 1524 to 1641. - under Spanish rule, then under French protectorate, from 1793 to 1814. - as part of France.

The preferential tax regime allows large international banks to widely use Monaco for financial transactions (about 800 international companies and 50 banks). Monaco is a world famous resort. The main government revenues come from taxes on banks and hotels (55%), tourism (25%) (about 700 thousand foreign tourists visit Monaco every year), resorts and gambling houses. A modern industrial base has emerged from environmentally friendly enterprises in the light and processing industries, 70% of those employed are residents of neighboring regions of France and Italy. GDP per capita for 1996 amounted to 25,000 US dollars per year.

The Oceanographic Institute is located in Monaco. There is a powerful radio station "Monte Carlo" and a television company "Tele Monte Carlo". Major tennis tournaments and car rallies, music and circus performances are held. A daily government newspaper, the Journal de Monaco, is published.

San Marino.

Republic of San Marino.

A state in the northeastern part of the Apennine Peninsula on Mount Titano, surrounded by Italian territory. It occupies an area of 61 km 2. the capital is the city of San Marino. Administratively, it is divided into 9 districts. As of 1995 the country's population was over 25,000 people; a large number of Sanmarinians (about 15 thousand) permanently reside outside the country, mainly in Italy, as well as in France and the USA. The official language is Italian. Religion – Catholicism. The monetary unit is the Italian lira.

San Marino is a republic. The constitution is in force (with amendments) of 1600.

The highest legislative body is the Grand General Council (unicameral parliament), which consists of 60 deputies elected by the population (by proportional representation) for 5 years (last elections in June 1998). The functions of the head of state and executive power are performed by two equal captain-regents, elected by the Great General Council from among its members for 6 months: from April 1 to September 30 and from October 1 to March 31 annually. The State Council (government) consists of 10 members, who are also members of the Grand General Council, a coalition.

San Marino is the oldest European state, existing since 301. The name "Republic of San Marino" appears in documents from the 10th century. Since 1862 state under the protectorate of Italy. The last agreement on friendship and good neighborliness with Italy was concluded in 1953.

When pursuing its foreign policy, San Marino adheres to the principles of neutrality and non-alignment. The country is not a member of military or economic groups. It takes part in a number of international treaties and conventions, participated in the Helsinki Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Stockholm Conference on Confidence Building Measures, the Vienna meeting and the Paris meeting. Bilaterally, San Marino maintains the closest and most diverse relations with Italy. In November 1988 San Marino joined the Council of Europe. Since 1992 - is a member of the UN.

In 1991 San Marino has also signed a Cooperation and Customs Union Agreement with the European Union, which recognizes San Marino's third country status.

The economy of San Marino is closely connected with the economy of Italy. Its basis is agriculture (grain production, winemaking) and serving foreign tourists. There are enterprises producing textiles, ceramics, souvenirs, and food products. More than 3 million tourists visit San Marino every year. Important sources of income are the issue of postage stamps and coins for collectors.

Comparison of European microstates:

So, from all of the above it follows that, despite their size, microstates influence the development of international relations in the world in the field of economics, politics and culture. First of all, this happens because the microstates of Europe belong to the category of economically developed countries that are taken into account, and in addition, many of them are members of various international organizations, which include a large number of different countries and were created to solve, consider or prevent any interethnic problems. Such organizations unite many countries and have a great influence on many processes occurring in the world, therefore states, as part of organizations, participate in the management of processes, and, therefore, influence them, since the 'behavior' of the organization depends on the position each allied country.

1 Western branch of the Germanic tribe ready.

The vicar is the bishop's assistant.

The Roman Curia is a system of government agencies that governs the Catholic Church and the Vatican State.

Numismatics – collecting ancient coins and medals.

A numismatist is a person who deals with numismatics.

Approval by the supreme power of an international treaty concluded by its authorized representatives.

Declaration of invalidity, having ceased to have effect.

Based on the size of their territory, the ten largest countries are distinguished, with an area of more than 3 million km2 each, which together make up the entire earth's landmass, but medium-sized and small countries predominate on the political map. There are also very tiny ones, which are usually called microstates. But, in essence, apart from their extremely small size, they are not much different from countries with a large territory.

Foreign economic relations of Russia using the example of the North-Western and Far Eastern regions
Foreign economic relations are the result of the global division of labor. Depending on the functional characteristics, the following main forms of external economic relations are distinguished: foreign trade ...

Korea
A country in East Asia, it occupies the Korean Peninsula, the adjacent part of the mainland and about 3.5 thousand coastal islands. Territory - 220.8 thousand km2. Population - over 60 million, mostly...

Peoples of Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus (Report)
Economic and political development, natural and historical features of Ukraine were reflected in the nature of growth, composition and geography of its population. The greatest influence in the Soviet...

Introduction.

On the modern political map of the world there are about 230 countries and territories, the vast majority of which are sovereign states.

There is no doubt that with such a large number of countries, there is a need for their grouping, which is carried out primarily on the basis of various quantitative criteria.

But among other types of grouping, the most common is sorting countries by the size of their territory.

There are also very tiny ones, which are usually called microstates. But, in essence, apart from their extremely small size, they are not much different from countries with a large territory.

Of course, each of the microstates, like any other country, has its own unique path of development and plays its own specific role in international political, economic and social relations.

But it would be unfair to say that their influence on the modern world is as small as the size of the states themselves. Let's see this using the example of European microstates:

Andorra.

Principality of Andorra.

The largest microstate in Europe, located in southwestern Europe in the Eastern Pyrenees between France and Spain. The area of the territory is 465 km2.

Administratively, it is divided into 7 communities (parishes), which have some administrative and financial independence. The capital is Andorra la Vella (23 thousand people). As of 1997, the population was over 65 thousand people, of which about 20 thousand were indigenous residents (Andorrans themselves), the rest were foreigners: including about 29 thousand Spaniards, 7 thousand Portuguese, 5 thousand

- French people. In terms of population growth 5%) it ranks first in Europe. The official language of the state is Catalan, but Spanish and French are also used. 99.1% of believers are Catholics. It does not have its own currency; the Spanish peseta and the French franc are in circulation.

In accordance with the constitution approved in a referendum on March 14, 1993, Andorra is a parliamentary principality.

The heads of state (co-princes) are the Bishop of Urgell - Joan Marti Alanis (since 1974) and the President of France Jacques Chirac (since 1995). They are the guarantors of Andorra’s independence and its good neighborliness with Spain and France.

According to the constitution, the co-rulers have the right to announce elections and referendums, appoint the head of government and members of the Constitutional Court, can sign a decree dissolving parliament, promulgate laws, and participate in the preparation of international treaties relating to internal security, defense and border issues.

The highest executive body is the government. Head of government since 1994 is the leader of the Liberal Union M. Forne Molne.

Main political parties: Liberal Union (LU) - represented in parliament by 16 deputies, National Democratic Association (NDR) - 6 deputies (leader - O.

Ribas Reig), New Democracy (ND) – 2, National Democratic Initiative (NDI) – 2, independent candidates – 2 deputies. At those held in December 1995. In the municipal elections, the greatest success was achieved by the NDO, whose representatives were elected alcaldes (mayors) of 4 out of 7 communities, including the capital.

The first mention of the territory of present-day Andorra dates back to 778, when the Visigoths, under the pressure of the Arabs, were forced to leave the city.

Seu de Urgell and seek refuge in the Pyrenees Mountains. Emperor Charlemagne stopped the Arab advance further north and placed Andorra under the protection of the Bishop of Urgell (Spain). In the Middle Ages, Andorra was a fief mainly of the Counts of Foix and the Bishops of Urgell. In 1278 an agreement was concluded between them on joint sovereignty over Andorra (“act-perage”).

Subsequently, the rights of the Comte de Foix passed to the French kings. Until 1993 Andorra was officially a feudal principality under the protectorate of Spain and France. The co-rulers of Andorra (the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell) jointly appointed vicar representatives with the powers of the head of state.

Vicars had to be native residents of the principality and live on its territory. They swore an oath to respect the “Fundamental Act of Andorra” (a kind of constitution adopted in 1866). Since 1419 In Andorra there is a General Council - Parliament (the oldest in Europe after Iceland). In 1933.

Universal suffrage for men was introduced, and in 1970. - for women.

Microstates of Foreign Europe. 10th grade

Andorra was admitted to the UN, in 1994 - to the Council of Europe, UNESCO and UNICEF, in 1996. The country officially joined the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

The population of mountain villages is engaged in cattle breeding (25 thousand sheep, 3 thousand goats). There are deposits of iron, tin, marble, granite, and medicinal thermal waters. There are 7 banks operating in the country. Exclusively road transport is used, the length of roads is 269 km.

Annual income per capita in 1997 amounted to 18,109 US dollars. Average monthly salary in 1996 – 178 thousand pesetas (@1300 US dollars).

Export volume for 1996 amounted to 60 million US dollars, imports - about 1 billion dollars.

Primary education is free and compulsory in all educational institutions until the age of 14. According to official data, the literacy rate in the country is 100%.

Several newspapers and magazines are published: the daily newspaper “Diary d’Andorra”, the weekly “Poble Andorra”; There are 2 radio stations and a local TV channel “Andorra TV-Canal-33”.

Vatican.

Vatican City State.

An independent state and the center of the Roman Catholic Church, the residence of its head - the Pope.

Located in the western part of Rome. It occupies an area of 0.44 km2. In Rome and its environs, the Vatican owns three cathedrals: Santa Maria Maggiore, San Giovanni in Laterano and San Paolo, and a number of palaces and villas with a total area of 0.7 km2. The Vatican, in fact, does not have its own permanent population. The pope, the leaders of the Roman Curia, and employees of Vatican institutions live on its territory. At the end of 1997 There were 2,493 employees working in Vatican institutions, of whom 1,328 had religious rank.

The official languages of the state are Latin and Italian, the currency is the Italian lira.

The Vatican also mints its own coins, intended mainly for numismatists.

The pope is elected for life by the College of Cardinals. Election is made, as a rule, from among the cardinals by secret ballot by a majority of at least one vote.

Highest advisory bodies: the Ecumenical Council of the Roman Catholic Church, the College of Cardinals and the Synod of Bishops.

The Ecumenical (or Vatican) Council convenes periodically every few decades to discuss the most important church problems.

The last council was convened in 1962–1965. (21st Ecumenical Council or ǁ Vatican Council).

The College of Cardinals, an advisory body to the pope, meets to discuss the most important church affairs and to select the pope.

The role of the Vatican in international politics and its influence in the world is based on the huge number of Catholic believers - about 900 million.

people (including 280 million in Europe, 390 in America, 91 in Africa, 100 in Asia, Australia and Oceania). The conductor of his policy is the Catholic clergy (1.9 million clergy, 0.5 million priests), about 2 thousand monastic orders, the largest of which are the orders of the Jesuits (26 thousand), Franciscans (45 thousand), Salesians , Capuchins, Benedictines, Dominicans.

The Vatican also acts through so-called secular Catholic organizations: trade unions, cultural, youth, women's and others.

Many of these organizations belong to the conference of international Catholic organizations, whose work is coordinated by the Vatican Secretariat of State.

Clerical political parties in different countries of the world are under a certain influence of the Vatican.

microstate, Also Dwarf State- a small independent power. At the same time, the criteria for including a state in this category may differ.

When classified by area, a microstate is usually called a state with an area smaller than the area of Luxembourg. Luxembourg itself is sometimes also considered a microstate.

The number of inhabitants is often used as a criterion. Moreover, in the terminology of the UN and the World Bank, microstates are states whose population does not exceed 1 million.

Human. Commonwealth reports use the term small countries and a population threshold of 1.5 million people. Finally, sometimes microstates refer to states with a population of less than 500 thousand people.

Many microstates are relatively young entities (Singapore, Bahrain and others). At the same time, most microstates in Europe have a centuries-old history. For example, San Marino is considered the oldest state in Europe.

Sometimes the concept is also used microcountry, which include not only small independent states, but also other small geographically and historically isolated (usually island) territories - dependent territories, administrative autonomies, and the like.

Examples are Maine, Guernsey, Bornholm, Gibraltar, Mayotte, Guam, Niue, Heligoland, Mount Athos and the like.

1. List of microstates

1.1. In Europe

Dependent territories and administrative autonomies of Europe:

1.2. In Asia

Dependent territories and administrative autonomies of Asia:

1.3. In Africa

Dependent territories and administrative autonomies of Africa:

Mayotte (French overseas territory).
Territory 374 sq. km. Population 193.6 thousand people. (2005).
Reunion (overseas department of France). Territory 2,517 sq. km. Population 776.9 thousand people. (2005).
Saint Helena (British Overseas Territory).
Territory 410 sq. km. Population 7.4 thousand people. (2005).
Spanish North Africa (autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla (with subordinate islands: Vélez de la Gomera, Alusemas and Chafarinas)). Area - 31 sq. km.

1.4. In America

Dependent territories and administrative autonomies of America:

Anguilla (British Overseas Territory). Territory 91 sq. km. Population 13.2 thousand people. (2005).
Aruba (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands). Territory 193 sq.
km. Population 71.5 thousand people. (2005).
Bermuda (British Overseas Territory). Territory 58.8 sq. km. Population 65.3 thousand people. (2005).
British Virgin Islands (British Overseas Territory). Territory 153 sq. km. Population 22.6 thousand people. (2005).
US Virgin Islands (US administered territory). Territory 352 sq. km. Population 108.7 thousand people. (2005).
Guadeloupe (Department of Guadeloupe).
Territory 1,780 sq. km. Population 448.7 thousand people. (2005).
Cayman Islands (British Overseas Territory). Territory 262 sq. km. Population 44.2 thousand
Martinique (Martinique Department). Territory 1,100 sq. km. Population 432.9 thousand people. (2005).
Montserrat (British Overseas Territory).
Territory 102 sq. km. Population 9,341 people. (2005)
Netherlands Antilles (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands). Territory 960 sq. km. Population 219.9 thousand people. (2005).
Saint Barthelemy (French colony). Area - 21 km, population in 1999 - 6852 people.
Saint Martin (French colony). Area - 53.2 km, population in 2004 - 33,102 people.
Saint-Pierre and Miquelon (territorial possessions of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon).
Territory 242 sq. km. Population 7 thousand people. (2005).
Turks and Caicos Islands (British Overseas Territory). Territory 430 sq. km. Population 20.5 thousand people. (2005).

1.5. In Oceania

Dependent territories and administrative autonomies of Oceania:

American Samoa (territory of American Samoa). Territory 199 sq. km.
Population 57.8 thousand people. (2005).
Guam (Territory of Guam). Territory 549 sq. km. Population 168.5 thousand people.
Cook Islands. Territory 240 sq. km. Population 21.3 thousand people. (2005).
Niue (Niue Island). Territory 260 sq. km. Population 2,166 people. (2005).
Norfolk (Territory of Norfolk Island). Territory 34.6 sq. km. Population 1,828 people. (2005).
Pitcairn (British Overseas Territory). Territory 47 sq. km. Population 46 people. (2005).
Northern Mariana Islands (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands).
Territory 477 sq. km. Population 82,400 people. (2006).
Tokelau (New Zealand territory). Territory 10 sq. km. Population 1,405 people.
Wallis and Futuna (French overseas territory). Territory 274 sq. km. Population 16 thousand people. (2005).
French Polynesia (Territory of French Polynesia). Territory 4,167 sq.
Microstates of Foreign Europe

km. Population 270.4 thousand people. (2005).

2. The most densely populated microcountry in the world

(Person per square kilometer):

Notes

ab With a large area of territory.
ab With a large population
ab From a small area to a large area

There are many small states in the world that you have certainly heard about, for example, the well-known Monaco, the Vatican or Luxembourg. But there are also countries whose territory is so small that the term “microcountries” is more suitable for them. It is these states that will be discussed, the history of their formation and how legal their existence is.

You will learn about such micro-countries as Westarctica, the Principality of Sealand, Rose Island, the Republic of Minerva, and the Republic of Molossia. So, let's start with Westarctic.

Westarctica is a state founded in 1959. Its founder is the entrepreneurial Travis McHenry. The state emerged as a result of omissions from an international treaty concluded in 1959, according to which the Arctic lands were divided between several countries.

But the Mary Beard Land found itself without an owner, which McHenry took advantage of and formalized ownership of this state.

The new owner appointed himself duke of the newly formed duchy.

This territory was named the state of Westarctica, which became one of the smallest states on the planet. Special stamps and coins were issued confirming the independence of the territorial entity.

The Principality of Sealand is another smallest state. Surprisingly, the Principality of Sealand originally existed in the form of an ordinary sea platform that protected British waters from shells dropped from enemy aircraft.

The Principality is located on the British shelf, and was formed as a separate state in 1967.

The founder of such a small state was Paddy Bates. In the new microcountry, he introduced his own coins and stamps. Today this state is functioning, but the platform suffered a fire not long ago, and work is now underway to restore it. After some time, the Principality will appear to visitors in a new form.

The next microstate that will be discussed is Rose Island.
This is also a sea platform, like the Principality of Sealand, only Italian.

It was built by Italian investor Giorgio Rosa in 1968. It had an area of 400 square meters, and there was a souvenir shop, an equipped place for fishing and much more. Officially, the platform was called the Rose Island Republic and had its own currency.

Unfortunately, this microstana has ceased to exist since it was blown up by the Italian authorities.

The reason for the destruction of Rose Island was the suspicion that the formation of this republic was a way of hiding from tax obligations.

The next microstate on our list is the Republic of Minerva.

Many of us would like to live in a utopian country, but we all know that there are no ideal places to live. So why not create such a place yourself?

Foreign Europe. Microstates

This question was solved by millionaire Michael Oliver. Not far from New Zealand and the island of Tonga, he founded such an ideal country. For this purpose, an artificially reclaimed island was created next to the Minerva Reef.

The new state was named the Republic of Minerva after the name of this reef. They even issued their own currency and elected a president.

But not everyone welcomed the creation of a new country. So dissatisfied with the current situation, the government of the neighboring kingdom of the island of Tonga expelled all the inhabitants from the island, which irrevocably led to the disappearance of this artificial island, since the necessary maintenance of the territory ceased and it was washed away by water.

And one more microcountry that I would like to talk about is the Republic of Molossia.

It is located in Northern Nevada. The microstate is one of the attractive destinations for tourists and is in sufficient demand. Despite the fact that the US government does not recognize the state as an independent territorial unit, it collects high taxes from it.

Currently, the Republic of Molossia exists, and is even going to expand into the territories of Pennsylvania and Northern California.

Bilaterally, San Marino maintains the closest and most diverse relations with Italy. In November 1988

San Marino joined the Council of Europe.

Microstates-dwarfs of foreign Europe part 1

Since 1992 - is a member of the UN.

In 1991 San Marino has concluded a new monetary and financial agreement with Italy, which will come into force in the near future and replace the agreement of 1953. on the customs and postal union. Under this agreement, San Marino, forming a single currency area with Italy, receives autonomy in monetary and financial matters, freedom of movement of capital and the ability to carry out transactions in foreign currency.

In 1991 San Marino has also signed a Cooperation and Customs Union Agreement with the European Union, which recognizes San Marino's third country status.

The economy of San Marino is closely connected with the economy of Italy.

Its basis is agriculture (grain production, winemaking) and serving foreign tourists. There are enterprises producing textiles, ceramics, souvenirs, and food products. More than 3 million tourists visit San Marino every year. Important sources of income are the issue of postage stamps and coins for collectors.

Comparison of European microstates:

So, from all of the above it follows that, despite their size, microstates influence the development of international relations in the world in the field of economics, politics and culture.

First of all, this happens because the microstates of Europe belong to the category of economically developed countries that are taken into account, and in addition, many of them are members of various international organizations, which include a large number of different countries and were created to solve, consider or prevent any interethnic problems.

Such organizations unite many countries and have a great influence on many processes occurring in the world, therefore states, as part of organizations, participate in the management of processes, and, therefore, influence them, since the 'behavior' of the organization depends on the position each allied country.

1 Western branch of the Germanic tribe ready.

The vicar is the bishop's assistant.

The Roman Curia is a system of government agencies that governs the Catholic Church and the Vatican State.

Numismatics – collecting ancient coins and medals.

A numismatist is a person who deals with numismatics.

Approval by the supreme power of an international treaty concluded by its authorized representatives.

Declaration of invalidity, having ceased to have effect.

ADD A COMMENT[possible without registration]
Before publication, all comments are reviewed by the site moderator - spam will not be published

Introduction.

On the modern political map of the world there are about 230 countries and territories, the vast majority of which are sovereign states.

Based on the size of their territory, the ten largest countries are distinguished, with an area of more than 3 million km2 each, which together make up the entire earth's landmass, but medium-sized and small countries predominate on the political map. There are also very tiny ones, which are usually called microstates. But, in essence, apart from their extremely small size, they are not much different from countries with a large territory.

Andorra.

Principality of Andorra.

The largest microstate in Europe, located in southwestern Europe in the Eastern Pyrenees between France and Spain. The area of the territory is 465 km2. Administratively, it is divided into 7 communities (parishes), which have some administrative and financial independence. The capital is Andorra la Vella (23 thousand people). As of 1997, the population was over 65 thousand people, of which about 20 thousand were indigenous residents (Andorrans themselves), the rest were foreigners: including about 29 thousand Spaniards, 7 thousand Portuguese, 5 thousand French. In terms of population growth (5%) it ranks first in Europe. The official language of the state is Catalan, but Spanish and French are also used. 99.1% of believers are Catholics. It does not have its own currency; the Spanish peseta and the French franc are in circulation.

In accordance with the constitution approved by referendum on March 14, 1993, Andorra is a parliamentary principality. The heads of state (co-princes) are the Bishop of Urgell - Joan Marti Alanis (since 1974) and French President Jacques Chirac (since 1995). They are the guarantors of Andorra’s independence and its good neighborliness with Spain and France. According to the constitution, the co-rulers have the right to announce elections and referendums, appoint the head of government and members of the Constitutional Court, can sign a decree dissolving parliament, promulgate laws, and participate in the preparation of international treaties relating to internal security, defense and border issues.

The legislative body is the unicameral parliament. The General Council, which controls the activities of the government and approves the state budget, elects the chairman of parliament (syndic) and his deputy, as well as the head of government, who is politically responsible to parliament. It is elected by direct universal suffrage for a term of 4 years (the last elections took place in February 1997) and consists of 28 deputies.

The highest executive body is the government. Head of government since 1994 is the leader of the Liberal Union M. Forne Molne.

Main political parties: Liberal Union (LU) - represented in parliament by 16 deputies, National Democratic Rally (NDR) 6 deputies (leader O. Ribas Reig), New Democracy (ND) 2, National Democratic Initiative (NDI) 2, independent candidates - 2 deputies. At those held in December 1995. In the municipal elections, the greatest success was achieved by the NDO, whose representatives were elected alcaldes (mayors) of 4 out of 7 communities, including the capital.

The first mention of the territory of present-day Andorra dates back to 778, when the Visigoths, under the pressure of the Arabs, were forced to leave the city of Seu de Urgell and seek refuge in the Pyrenees Mountains. Emperor Charlemagne stopped the Arab advance further north and placed Andorra under the protection of the Bishop of Urgell (Spain). In the Middle Ages, Andorra was a fief mainly of the Counts of Foix and the Bishops of Urgell. In 1278 an agreement was concluded between them on joint sovereignty over Andorra (“act-perage”). Subsequently, the rights of the Comte de Foix passed to the French kings. Until 1993 Andorra was officially a feudal principality under the protectorate of Spain and France. The co-rulers of Andorra (the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell) jointly appointed vicar representatives with the powers of the head of state. Vicars had to be native residents of the principality and live on its territory. They swore an oath to respect the “Fundamental Act of Andorra” (a kind of constitution adopted in 1866). Since 1419 In Andorra there is a General Council Parliament (the oldest in Europe after Iceland). In 1933. Universal suffrage for men was introduced, and in 1970. for women.

1.06.93 The Treaty of Good Neighbourliness, Friendship and Cooperation was signed between the Kingdom of Spain, the French Republic and the Principality of Andorra, which consolidated the status of Andorra as a sovereign state. In 1993 Andorra was admitted to the UN, in 1994 to the Council of Europe, UNESCO and UNICEF, in 1996. The country officially joined the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

The main sectors of the economy are trade and services for foreign tourists (7-8 million per year). An important source of income is the cultivation and processing of tobacco. There are light industry enterprises (primarily the production of cheese and mineral water), and handicraft production of souvenirs and jewelry. The population of mountain villages is engaged in cattle breeding (25 thousand sheep, 3 thousand goats). There are deposits of iron, tin, marble, granite, and medicinal thermal waters. There are 7 banks operating in the country. Exclusively road transport is used; the road length is 269 km.

The total number of workers and employees in 1996 31,755 people. Of these, 57% are employed in trade, the hotel business, the service sector, and banking services, 18% in construction, 13% in civil servants, and 3% in the manufacturing industry. Annual income per capita in 1997 amounted to 18,109 US dollars. Average monthly salary in 1996 178 thousand pesetas (1300 US dollars).

Export volume for 1996 amounted to 60 million US dollars, imports about 1 billion dollars.

Primary education is free and compulsory in all educational institutions until the age of 14. According to official data, the literacy rate in the country is 100%.

Several newspapers and magazines are published: the daily newspaper “Diary”

d Andorra”, weekly “Poble Andorra”; There are 2 radio stations and a local TV channel “Andorra TV-Canal-33”.

Vatican.

Vatican City State.

An independent state and the center of the Roman Catholic Church, the residence of its head, the Pope. Located in the western part of Rome. It occupies an area of 0.44 km2. In Rome and its environs, the Vatican owns three cathedrals: Santa Maria Maggiore, San Giovanni in Laterano and San Paolo, and a number of palaces and villas with a total area of 0.7 km2. The Vatican, in fact, does not have its own permanent population. The pope, the leaders of the Roman Curia, and employees of Vatican institutions live on its territory. At the end of 1997 There were 2,493 employees working in Vatican institutions, of whom 1,328 had religious rank.

The official languages of the state are Latin and Italian, the currency is the Italian lira. The Vatican also mints its own coins, intended mainly for numismatists.

From the point of view of government, the Vatican is a theocratic monarchy. Head of State, Pope (from October 16, 1978, John Paul ǁ), Pole by nationality; before him, for several centuries, the papal throne was occupied exclusively by Italians. The Pope has legislative, executive and judicial powers. Its competence includes representing the Vatican in international relations, ratifying and denouncing international treaties and concordats, receiving diplomatic representatives and appointing Vatican representatives in other countries. The pope is elected for life by the College of Cardinals. Election is made, as a rule, from among the cardinals by secret ballot by a majority of at least one vote.

Highest advisory bodies: the Ecumenical Council of the Roman Catholic Church, the College of Cardinals and the Synod of Bishops.

The Ecumenical (or Vatican) Council convenes periodically every few decades to discuss the most important church problems. The last council was convened in 1962-1965. (21st Ecumenical Council or ǁ Vatican Council).

The College of Cardinals, an advisory body to the pope, meets to discuss the most important church affairs and to select the pope.

The role of the Vatican in international politics, its influence in the world is based on the huge number of Catholic believers of about 900 million people (including 280 million in Europe, 390 in America, 91 in Africa, 100 in Asia, Australia and Oceania). The conductor of his policy is the Catholic clergy (1.9 million clergy, 0.5 million priests), about 2 thousand monastic orders, the largest of which are the orders of the Jesuits (26 thousand), Franciscans (45 thousand), Salesians , Capuchins, Benedictines, Dominicans.

The dwarf states of Europe are a few very small sovereign states in Europe. These usually include Andorra, Liechtenstein, Malta, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City. In this course work, only part of the microstates will be considered, such as: Vatican City, Monaco, San Marino, Andorra and Liechtenstein.

When talking about microstates, first of all, attention is paid to the small size of these countries. Dwarf countries are no less proud of their size than big powers, because thanks to them the world map becomes brighter and more colorful.

The largest of the European dwarf states is Luxembourg, followed by Andorra, Liechtenstein, San Marino and Monaco. Moreover, San Marino is an enclave, that is, it is located within the borders of another state.

They are difficult to find on the map of vast Europe. The size and magnitude of these countries have always been the basis for numerous legends, jokes and anecdotes.

The Principality of Liechtenstein is the only surviving state that was part of the Holy Roman Empire. Created as a sovereign fief of the House of Austria based on the counties of Vaduz and Schellenberg in 1719. Population more than 30 thousand people. Due to its geographical position between Switzerland and Austria, it was not affected by the reorganization of Germany after the French Revolution and avoided absorption into the German Empire later in the 19th century.

Erected on steep, inaccessible cliffs, these fortified cities in the early Middle Ages could repel any attack and protect their independence. It seems that nature itself helped them withstand the pressure of time and remain the same as they were born at the time of tectonic shifts in history, in the era of the redrawing of Europe, on the “faults” of powerful states. Like giant ice hummocks, these states were ready to crush, wipe out their microscopic neighbors from the face of the earth, but they never succeeded: small countries for a long time, for centuries, defended their “specialness”, their independence. Their residents still remember this and are full of pride for their fatherland. As a rule, they are convinced monarchists, know the history of their countries by heart, honor national heroes, and support ancient traditions.

Luxembourgers have been counting their history since the distant 10th century and proudly talk about the fact that their small country gave the world five kings and emperors, among whom the noble and merciful ruler Johann the Blind, praised by Petrarch, joyfully welcomed by Dante, the enemy of the Pope Henry VII, the founder of the first in the East Europe University of the Czech King Charles IV. For centuries, almost all European wars took place in Luxembourg. Repeatedly redrawn and changing its borders, this country achieved full sovereignty only in 1890 and is rightly called the Grand Duchy. The territory of present-day Liechtenstein was developed by the ancient Romans, and from the depths of the Middle Ages the name of the brilliant minnesinger Ulrich von Liechtenstein has come down to us. However, the history of the independent Principality of Liechtenstein, located on the banks of the Rhine, can only be counted from 1719.

The Principality of Monaco is located on the French Riviera. Since the 13th century, the principality has belonged to the House of Grimaldi and gained full independence only after the transfer of the County of Nice from Italy to France in 1860.

Monaco is located on the Mediterranean Sea and has a population of about 35 thousand people. The government is a constitutional monarchy headed by Prince Albert II. The population is 95% parishioners of the Roman Catholic Church. French, Italian and English are widely spoken. The economy is based on light industry, banking and financial services, logistics and trade, biotechnology research, marine environment, tourism

The settlement in Monaco began with an ancient Roman fortress on a high cliff. As a principality, it existed during the reign of the Genoese and was inextricably linked with the Grimaldi dynasty. Numerous guidebooks retell the legendary story of New Year's Eve 1306, when the Grimaldi brothers, in order to regain power, disguised themselves as monks, entered the castle and opened the city gates for soldiers. However, the most popular story here is the romantic marriage of the “Queen of Hollywood” Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III of Monaco. At the same time, few people remember that in the history of the princely house of Monaco a similar story had already taken place, when in 1889 Prince Albert I married New Orleans resident Alice Heine, a distant relative of the poet Heinrich Heine.

The Principality of Andorra is a relic of feudalism, located in the Pyrenees. It was a joint fief of the Bishop of Urgell (Spain) and the Count of Foix (France), with a population of about 70 thousand people. The County of Foix became part of the French monarchy in 1607, and the King (currently the President) of France became the overlord of Andorra on the French side.

Gained independence in 1278. The official language is Catalan.

Andorra owes its birth to Charlemagne, who founded a settlement here back in 784. In the capital's Parliament House, otherwise known as the "Valley House", you can see the "Cabinet of the Seven Keys", where priceless documents dating back to the time of Charlemagne and his son Louis the Pious are kept. The keys to the archive are under the control of the heads of communities, and each of them individually cannot use his own key; access to unique documents is only possible if you turn all seven at the same time. But, despite the ancient history, the constitution in Andorra was adopted only on May 4, 1993.

The Most Serene Republic of San Marino is the only remaining medieval self-governing Italian commune. She managed to avoid the unification of Italy into separate principalities in the 15th century and the unification of the country into a single state in the 19th century thanks to her remote position in a valley in the Apennine Mountains, as well as her decision to provide refuge to the leaders of the unification movement. The population is about 30 thousand people.

San Marino, the oldest republic in the world, stands somewhat apart among the monarchical dwarf states. According to legend, the city was founded by the stonemason Marinus, who received this site as a gift back in the 4th century AD. Here they like to repeat Napoleon's statement, dating back to the Italian campaign of 1797, that San Marino is a symbol of Freedom.

Common to all dwarf states is the introduction of certain tax benefits, which allowed foreign capital to freely enter the country and promote the development of trade and economy. However, the advantages that a tax-free system creates are inseparable from difficulties: for example, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development in April 2002 added Andorra to the “black list” of countries and territories that “do not take targeted measures to prevent the concealment of tax revenues” - - and this is not just Andorra’s problem. But, of course, dwarf countries prosper not only due to the “opacity” of their banking system.

However, the desire to please guests will never force small countries to sacrifice their order and dignity. When guidebooks to Luxembourg published reports that one of the most interesting attractions of the city was the opportunity to be photographed next to a guardsman frozen at his post near the palace, or even to put his hand on his shoulder, the young Duke Henry, realizing what it would be like for a soldier if every second one approached to hug him, ordered to immediately put up a fence. An attraction is an attraction, and service is service. Small countries have “their own pride,” and they will not allow anyone to become familiar with representatives of their army or police (whose ranks sometimes number no more than a few dozen people). Otherwise, everything here is arranged for the convenience and pleasure of tourists.

Monaco is famous for its casinos, opera house and oceanographic museum. Liechtenstein is the richest princely art gallery. Luxembourg is being improved and rebuilt, turning into “the most beautiful observation deck in Europe.” A Pinacoteca with works by painters of the 12th-18th centuries opens in the Cathedral of St. Francis in San Marino. Hotels, restaurants, information bureaus are being built, and the entire city infrastructure is being rebuilt to accommodate and support numerous tourists. Streets, squares and palaces are being put in order - after all, these countries have changed very little over the past centuries. New strife and wars are sweeping over Europe, political and social storms are roaring. However, as before, guards are posted in dwarf countries on duty at palaces, thousands of tourists rush to theaters, concerts and exhibition halls. The elusive charm of a summer resort is present at the stalls of street vendors, in the quiet of restaurants and cafes, in pantomimes and melodies of street actors and musicians.

And modern Europe is already unthinkable without the quiet of Luxembourg banks, the luxury of Monaco casinos, San Marino postage stamps, and Andorran tobacco. How impossible is an organic picture of the world without five, even subtle colors. And when they play in the multicolored palette of the Old World, the world becomes more multifaceted and interesting.

Introduction.

On the modern political map there are about 230 countries and territories, the vast majority of which are sovereign states.

According to the size of the territory, the ten largest countries are distinguished, with an area of more than 3 million km2 each, which together constitute of the entire earth's land, but medium-sized and small countries predominate on the political map. There are also very tiny ones, which are usually called microstates. But, in essence, apart from their extremely small size, they are not much different from countries with a large territory.

Of course, each microstate, like any other country, has its own unique path of development and plays its own specific role in international political, economic and social relations. But it would be unfair to say that their influence on the modern world is as small as the size of the states themselves. Let's see this using the example of European microstates:

Principality of Andorra.

The largest of the microstates of Europe, located in southwestern Europe in the Eastern Pyrenees between France and Spain. The area of the territory is 465 km2. Administratively, it is divided into 7 communities (parishes), which have some administrative and financial independence. The capital is Andorra la Vella (23 thousand people). As of 1997, the population was over 65 thousand people, of which about 20 thousand were indigenous people (Andorrans themselves), the rest were foreigners: including about 29 thousand - Spaniards , 7 thousand - Portuguese, 5 thousand - French. By population growth (

In accordance with the constitution approved in a referendum on March 14, 1993, Andorra is a parliamentary principality. The heads of state (co-princes) are the Bishop of Urgell - Joan Marti Alanis (since 1974) and the President of France Jacques Chirac (since 1995). They are the guarantors of Andorra's independence and its good neighborliness with Spain and France. According to the constitution, the co-rulers have the right to announce elections and referendums, appoint the head of government and members of the Constitutional Court, can sign a decree dissolving parliament, promulgate laws, and participate in the preparation of international treaties relating to internal security, defense and border issues.

The legislative body is the unicameral parliament - the General Council, which controls the activities of the government and approves the state budget, elects the chairman of the parliament (syndic) and his deputy, as well as the head of government, who bears political responsibility to the parliament. It is elected by direct universal suffrage for a term of 4 years (the last elections took place in February 1997) and consists of 28 deputies.

The highest executive body is the government. Head of government since 1994 is the leader of the Liberal Union. Forne Molne.

Main political parties: Liberal Union (LU) - represented in parliament by 16 deputies, National Democratic Rally (NDR) - 6 deputies (leader - O. Ribas Reig), New Democracy (ND) - 2, National Democratic Initiative (NDI) - 2, independent candidates - 2 deputies. At those held in December 1995. In municipal elections, the greatest success was achieved by the NDO, whose representatives were elected alcaldes (mayors) of 4 out of 7 communities, including the capital.

The first mention of the territory of present-day Andorra dates back to 778, when the Visigoths

Under the pressure of the Arabs, they were forced to leave the city of Seu de Urgell and seek refuge in the Pyrenees Mountains. Emperor Charlemagne stopped the advance of the Arabs further north and transferred Andorra under the protection of the Bishop of Urgell (Spain). In the Middle Ages, Andorra was a fief mainly of the Counts of Foix and the Bishops of Urgell. In 1278 an agreement was concluded between them on joint sovereignty over Andorra (“act-perage”). Subsequently, the rights of the Comte de Foix were transferred to the French kings. Until 1993 Andorra was officially a feudal principality under the protectorate of Spain and France. The co-rulers of Andorra (the French President, Bishop of Urgell) jointly appointed representatives-vicars with the powers of the head of state. Vicars had to be native residents of the principality and live on its territory. They swore an oath to respect the “Fundamental Act of Andorra” (a kind of constitution adopted in 1866). Since 1419 In Andorra there is a General Council - Parliament (the oldest in Europe after Iceland). In 1933. universal suffrage for men was introduced, and in 1970. - for women.

1.06.93 The Treaty of Good Neighborhood, Friendship and Cooperation was signed between the Kingdom of Spain, the French Republic and the Principality of Andorra, which consolidated Andorra’s status as a sovereign state. In 1993 Andorra was admitted to the UN, in 1994 - to the Council of Europe, UNESCO and UNICEF, in 1996. The country officially joined the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

Total number of workers and employees in 1996 – 31,755 people. Of these, 57% are employed in trade, the hotel business, the service sector, and the provision of banking services, 18% in construction, 13% in civil servants, 3% in the manufacturing industry. Annual income per capita in 1997 amounted to 18,109 US dollars. Average monthly salary in 1996 – 178 thousand pesetas ( @

US$1300).

Export volume for 1996 amounted to 60 million US dollars, imports - about 1 billion dollars.

Primary education is free and compulsory in all educational institutions until the age of 14. According to official data, the literacy rate in the country is 100%.

Several newspapers and magazines are published: the daily newspaper “Diary”

d’Andorra”, weekly “Poble Andorra”; There are 2 radio stations and a local TV channel “AndorraTV-Canal-33”.

Vatican City State.

An independent state and the center of the Roman Catholic Church, the residence of its head - the Pope. Located in the western part of Rome. Occupies an area of 0.44 km2. In Rome and its environs, the Vatican owns three cathedrals: Santa Maria Maggiore, San Giovanni in Laterano and San Paolo, a number of palaces and villas with a total area of 0.7 km2. The Vatican, in fact, does not have its own permanent population. The pope, the leaders of the Roman Curia, live on its territory

Employees of Vatican institutions. At the end of 1997 2,493 employees worked in Vatican institutions, of which 1,328 had religious rank.

The official languages of the state are Latin and Italian, the currency is the Italian lira. The Vatican also mints its own coins, intended mainly for numismatists.

From the point of view of government, the Vatican is a theocratic monarchy. Head of State – Pope (from 10/16/1978 – John Paul ǁ

), Pole by nationality; before him, for several centuries, the papal throne was occupied exclusively by Italians. The pope has legislative, executive and judicial powers. His competence includes representing the Vatican in international relations, ratification and denunciation international treaties and concordats, the reception of diplomatic representatives and the appointment of Vatican representatives in other countries. The pope is elected for life by the College of Cardinals. Election is made, as a rule, from among the cardinals by secret ballot by a majority of at least votes.

Highest advisory bodies: the Ecumenical Council of the Roman Catholic Church, the College of Cardinals and the Synod of Bishops.

The Ecumenical (or Vatican) Council is convened periodically every few decades to discuss the most important church problems. The last council was convened in 1962 - 1965. (21st Ecumenical Council or ǁ

Vatican Council ).

The College of Cardinals, an advisory body to the pope, meets to discuss the most important church affairs and to select the pope.

The role of the Vatican in international politics, its influence in the world is based on the huge number of Catholic believers - about 900 million people (including 280 million in Europe, 390 in America, 91 in Africa, 100 in Asia, Australia and Oceania ). The conductor of his policy is the Catholic clergy (1.9 million clergy, 0.5 million priests), about 2 thousand monastic orders, the largest of which are the orders of the Jesuits (26 thousand), Franciscans (45 thousand), Salesians, Capuchins , Benedictines, Dominicans.

The Vatican also acts through so-called secular Catholic organizations: trade unions, cultural, youth, women's and others. Many of these organizations are members of the conference of international Catholic organizations, whose work is coordinated by the Vatican Secretariat of State. Clerical political parties in different countries of the world have a certain influence of the Vatican.

Recently, the role of the Vatican in international relations has been increasing, facilitated by the political dynamism of the current Pope John Paul ǁ,

who has established personal contacts with many major government figures and successfully, with noticeable resonance, conducts regular trips around the world. The Vatican emphasizes its interest in the development of positive international processes; takes constructive positions on key international issues, including the elimination of weapons of mass destruction, the resolution of regional conflicts, and environmental protection.

The Holy See carries out a wide range of business activities, including financial ones. It has large real estate in Europe and Latin America, and cooperates with international banks and monopolies. Near Vatican capital invested in Italy. In Italy alone, he owns 482 thousand hectares of cultivated area, including several thousand hectares in the Rome region.

Groups of pilgrims from different countries of the world and tourists arriving in the Vatican contribute to the budget of the Holy See. In 1997 this amount amounted to about 60 million US dollars.

The Vatican publishes hundreds of newspapers and magazines in various countries. Official of the Vatican - the daily newspaper "Osservatore Romano". The Papal Throne has its own press agency, the Agenzia Internationale Fidesz (AIF). Vatican Radio broadcasts its broadcasts in 37 languages to most countries of the world, including Russia and other CIS countries. There is a television center at the Vatican.

Liechtenstein.

Principality of Liechtenstein.

A state in central Europe, located between Switzerland and Austria. It occupies an area of 160 km2. The capital is the city of Vaduz. Administratively, it is divided into two historical parts: Oberland (Upper Liechtenstein) with its center in the city of Vaduz and Unterland (Lower Liechtenstein) with its center in the city of Schellenberg. It is divided into 11 communities. In 1995 the population was 31 thousand. people, of which 64% are Liechtensteiners, 36% are foreigners, mainly Swiss (16%) and Austrians (8%). The official language is German. 87% of believers are Catholics. The monetary unit is the Swiss franc.

With the consent of parliament, the prince appoints the government. The head of government is M. Frick.

The history of the country begins with the emergence on the territory of modern Liechtenstein of the feudal possession of Schellenberg (12th century) and the county of Vaduz (14th century), which became part of the Holy Roman Empire, and later became a protectorate of the Habsburg Empire. In 1699 Schellenberg and in 1712 Vaduz were sold to one of the close associates of the Austrian Emperor, the Prince of Liechtenstein. The date of formation of the state is considered to be August 15, 1719, when these possessions received the status of a principality

According to the customs union agreement concluded in 1923, Liechtenstein is an internal economic zone of Switzerland. Switzerland represents Liechtenstein's diplomatic and consular interests in relations with the vast majority of states.

Liechtenstein is an industrial-agrarian state. The economy is closely connected with foreign, mainly Swiss, capital and is mainly export-oriented (EU countries - 41%, Switzerland - 15% of exports). Over 75% of imports come from Switzerland. GNP – in per capita terms is 70 thousand. Swiss francs.

Advanced industries are developing at the fastest pace: metalworking, instrument making, production of vacuum equipment, electronic systems, microprocessors. The textile, ceramic and pharmaceutical industries are traditionally developed. In terms of industrial production per 1 km2, the principality ranks first in Europe. 45.2% of the working population is employed in industry, and 45% in the service sector. More than 6 thousand people come to work in Liechtenstein every day from Switzerland and Austria.

Only 2% of workers are employed in agriculture. The main industry is livestock farming (75% of agricultural production).

The principality does not have an army, higher educational institutions or a national radio and television agency.

Several newspapers are published, among which the most popular are Liechtensteiner Volksblatt (8 thousand copies) and Liechtensteiner Vaterland (8.5 thousand copies).

Principality of Monaco.

A state in Southern Europe, on the Mediterranean coast, surrounded by land territory of France. It occupies an area of 1.95 km2 (of which 0.4 km2 has been reclaimed from the sea in recent years). Administratively, it is divided into 4 merged districts - cities: Monaco, Monte Carlo, La Condamine and Fontvielle. The capital is the city of Monaco. As of 1997 the population was about 31.9 thousand people, of which the indigenous people - Monegasques - were about 6 thousand. people, French - about 13 thousand, Italians - about 5 thousand, English - over 1 thousand. The official language is French, but Monegasque, Italian, and English are also common. 95% of believers are Catholics. The monetary unit is the French franc, also in circulation are Monegasque francs (coins mainly for numismatic tourists).

From the Grimaldi dynasty. Legislative power belongs to the prince and the National Council (parliament), consisting of 18 deputies elected for 5 years by universal suffrage. Monegasques have the right to vote. The last elections took place in 1998. executive power is exercised by the Government Council, headed by Minister of State M. Levesque (since 1997). In accordance with the 1918 agreement. between Monaco and France, 2 out of 4 seats in the Government Council are occupied by representatives of France (including the post of Minister of State). Officially, there are no political parties in Monaco; the main political organization is the National Democratic Union.

From the 15th century – principality, from 1524 to 1641. - under Spanish rule, then under French protectorate, from 1793 to 1814. - as part of France.

The preferential tax regime allows large international banks to widely use Monaco for financial transactions (about 800 international companies and 50 banks). Monaco is a world famous resort. The main government revenues come from taxes on banks and hotels (55%), tourism (25%) (about 700 thousand foreign tourists visit Monaco every year), resorts and gambling houses. A modern industrial base has formed from environmentally friendly enterprises of the light and processing industry, 70% of workers on them are residents of neighboring regions of France and Italy. GDP per capita for 1996 amounted to 25,000 US dollars per year.

The Oceanographic Institute is located in Monaco. There is a powerful radio station "Monte Carlo" and a television company "Tele Monte Carlo". Major tennis tournaments and car rallies, music and circus performances are held. The daily government newspaper “Journal deMonaco” is published.

San Marino.

Republic of San Marino.

A state in the northeastern part of the Apennine Peninsula on Mount Titano, surrounded by Italian territory. It occupies an area of 61 km2. The capital is the city of San Marino. Administratively, it is divided into 9 districts. In 1995. the country's population was over 25,000 people; a large number of Sanmarinians (about 15 thousand) permanently reside outside the country, mainly in Italy, as well as in France and the USA. The official language is Italian. Religion is Catholicism. The monetary unit is the Italian lira.

San Marino is a republic. The constitution is in force (as amended) in 1600.

The highest legislative body is the Grand General Council (unicameral parliament), which consists of 60 deputies elected by the population (by proportional representation) for 5 years (last elections in June 1998). The functions of the head of state and executive power are performed by two equal captain-regents elected by the Grand General council from among its members for 6 months: from April 1 to September 30 and from October 1 to March 31 annually. The State Council (government) consists of 10 members, who are also members of the Great General Council, a coalition.

San Marino is the oldest European state, existing since 301. The name “Republic of San Marino” appears in documents from the 10th century. Since 1862, the state has been under the protectorate of Italy. The last treaty of friendship and good neighborliness with Italy was concluded in 1953.

When pursuing its foreign policy, San Marino adheres to the principles of neutrality and non-alignment. The country is not a member of military or economic groupings. It takes part in a number of international treaties and conventions, participated in the Helsinki Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Stockholm Conference on Confidence Building Measures, the Vienna meeting and the Paris meeting. Bilaterally, San Marino maintains the closest and most diverse relations with Italy. In November 1988, San Marino joined the Council of Europe. Since 1992 - is a member of the UN.

In 1991 San Marino has also signed a Cooperation and Customs Union Agreement with the European Union, which recognizes San Marino as a third country.

The economy of San Marino is closely connected with the economy of Italy. It is based on agriculture (grain production, winemaking) and serving foreign tourists. There are enterprises producing textiles, ceramics, souvenirs, and food products. More than 3 million tourists visit San Marino every year. Important sources of income are the issue of postage stamps and coins for collectors.

Comparison of European microstates:

State

Population,

thousand people

Main sectors of the economy

Main industries

Trade, tourist services

Light, food

Liechtenstein

Processing, instrumentation

San Marino

Tourism, agriculture

Light, food

Light industry and processing

No permanent population

So, from all of the above it follows that, despite their size, microstates influence the development of international relations in the world of economics, politics and culture. First of all, this happens because the microstates of Europe belong to the category of economically developed countries, which are considered, and in addition, many of them are members of various international organizations, which include a large number of different countries and were created to solve, consider or prevent any international problems. Such organizations unite many countries and have a great influence on many processes occurring in the world, therefore states, as part of organizations, participate in the management of processes, and, therefore, influence them, since the “behavior” of the organization depends on the position of each country - companions.

1Western branch of the Germanic Gothic tribe.

The vicar is the bishop's assistant.

The Roman Curia is a system of government agencies that governs the Catholic Church and the Vatican State.

Numismatics – collecting old coins and medals.

A numismatist is a person who deals with numismatics.

Approval by the supreme power of an international treaty concluded by its authorized representatives.

Declaration invalid, no longer valid.