The plight of the Lilliputians: an analysis of five European microstates (Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City)

(ENG) The mini- or microstate is an important but little studied phenomenon in political geography. This article seeks to redress the balance and give these entities some of the attention they deserve. In general, five microstates are examined; all are located in Western Europe?Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino and the Vatican. The degree to which each is autonomous in its internal affairs is thoroughly explored. And the extent to which each has control over its external relations is investigated. Disadvantages stemming from its small size strike at the heart of the ministate problem. And they have forced these nations to adopt practices which should be of use to large states. (FR): Les Etats nains n'ont guère fait l'objet d'études de géographie politique. Afin de combler cette lacune, cinq mini-Etats sont examinés ici; il s'agit de l'Andorre, du Liechtenstein, de Monaco, de Saint-Marin et du Vatican. Dans quelle mesure ces Etats disposent-ils de l'autonomie interne et ont-ils le contrôle de leurs relations extérieures, c'est ce que l'auteur étudie, en soulignant les inconvénients que résultent de la petite taille de ces pays et les ont contraints à adopter des solutions que les grands Etats pourraient appliquer eux aussi.