Understanding Enclaves: Definition, Examples, and Purpose

Enclaves are small, isolated areas that are surrounded by a larger territory or country, and are often used to protect the interests of a particular group or organization.

In the context of international relations, enclaves can refer to territories that are under the jurisdiction of one country but are geographically separated from the rest of that country. For example, the Vatican City is an enclave within Rome, Italy, and is a sovereign state with its own government and laws.

Enclaves can also be used to describe areas within a city or region that are set aside for specific purposes, such as industrial parks or nature reserves. In these cases, the enclave is not necessarily a separate country or territory, but rather a designated area within a larger urban or rural area.

Overall, the term "enclave" is used to describe a self-contained area that is separated from the surrounding territory by physical or political boundaries, and is often used to protect the interests of a particular group or organization.