One of the most essential characteristics of the state is

A.

legitimacy

B.

the civil service

C.

the rule of law

D.

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.