41

Latin American states have exerted considerable influence over the progressive development of international law in territorial matters. The uti possidetis rule, according to which the international boundaries of newly independent states are those of their pre-existing administrative units, had as a goal the avoidance of further colonialist attempts as well as providing stability in the relations between the new states. Differences in its application existed between Brazil and the Hispanic American states, but the general scope of the rule was perceived in the same way. Respect for territorial integrity, the prohibition of conquest as a valid mode of acquisition of sovereignty, and the outlawing of colonialism are examples of many rules which were first developed at regional level, and only later applied at universal level.