What are non examples of protectorate?

Non-examples of protectorates include fully independent nations that exercise complete sovereignty over their affairs, such as Japan or Brazil, which are not under the control or influence of a foreign power. Additionally, countries that are part of a voluntary union or federation, like the United States or Switzerland, do not qualify as protectorates because they maintain equal status among member states rather than being dominated by an external authority. Other non-examples include colonies, where a foreign power exerts direct control, and territories that are administered under international mandates without the characteristics of a protectorate arrangement.