The recognition of states must be distinguished from the recognition of governments. New states are generally recognized as such by other states if their origin is considered legitimate and irreversible. However, there is no obligation under international law to recognize other states. Although the conditions for recognition may differ from state to state, they are based on what is known as the three-element doctrine: state territory, state people, state power.

Where the recognition of governments is concerned, the central element is the exercise of sovereign power over the state. A change of government makes no difference to statehood or to the recognition of the state as such. Switzerland is in favour of the widest-possible recognition of states, but it is extremely reticent about recognizing governments.