One of the most essential characteristics of the state is
legitimacy
the civil service
the rule of law
sovereignty
Correct answer is D
One of the most essential characteristics of the state is sovereignty.
Other characteristics are as follows:
1. Population
2. Territory
3. Government
4. Recognition
5. Permanence.
Note that the supreme power to make laws and enforce it is with the state. The sovereignty of a state is not negotiable and must be free from external control.