Legal Definitions - in patrimonio principis

in patrimonio principis

This Latin phrase refers to property, rights, or assets that belong to the sovereign or the state by virtue of its inherent governmental authority, rather than as a private individual's possession. These are typically things considered essential for public welfare, national defense, or the exercise of governmental power, and are held in trust for the benefit of the populace.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• National Mineral Rights
  Imagine a country where vast, untapped deposits of rare earth minerals are discovered deep within its borders. The government declares these mineral rights as belonging in patrimonio principis. This means the state, as the sovereign entity, holds ownership and control over these valuable resources on behalf of its citizens, rather than allowing a private individual or company to claim them outright. The state can then regulate their extraction, ensuring benefits for the entire nation, such as funding public services or strategic industries.
• Protected National Parks
  When a government designates a large, pristine wilderness area as a national park, it is considered in patrimonio principis. This signifies that the land, its unique ecosystems, and wildlife are held by the state as a public trust, not as private property. The government manages and protects these areas for conservation, public enjoyment, and future generations, reflecting its sovereign responsibility for national heritage and environmental stewardship.
• Strategic Public Infrastructure
  Critical infrastructure like a national electricity grid or a country's primary international airport often falls in patrimonio principis. Even if managed by a state-owned corporation, the underlying assets and the essential service they provide are considered to belong to the state by virtue of its sovereign role in ensuring national security, economic stability, and public welfare. This prevents private entities from having absolute control over vital services that impact the entire population.