a neutral country is one that chooses not to take part in a war between other countries in international relations. international law allows a country to remain neutral during a period of war between two or more states. when a country declares it is neutral, it cannot allow any part of its territory to become a base for one side. it may not construct warships, recruit soldiers or organize military expeditions on behalf of one belligerent. it is also called "armed neutrality" when declaring itself neutral during a war. this is not the same as "neutralization", or permanent neutrality. a neutral country is also different from the neutrality claimed by non-governmental organizations (ngos) or united nations peacekeeping groups.