DECA Business Management and Administration Exam Practice – Complete Prep Guide

The principle of sovereign immunity is a legal doctrine that essentially prevents the government from being sued without its consent. This principle applies to the federal government, shielding it from certain types of legal actions, particularly in foreign courts. This means that if a foreign entity or individual wishes to bring a lawsuit against the federal government, they generally cannot do so unless the government has specifically waived its immunity in that context. This protection ensures that the government can carry out its functions without constant interference from lawsuits, which might otherwise deter its ability to govern effectively.

In contrast, forming international trade agreements, regulating citizens, and exerting power over states are aspects that are either influenced by different legal frameworks or result from the government's legislative and constitutional powers, rather than being directly tied to the concept of sovereign immunity.