I try to be clear when writing or speaking, but it can be complicated when people are not even accustomed to the use of "state" in this context. In those situations, I may relax and use "government" because I'm confident they will interpret that the way I would "state".

I've used "regime" more often lately. "Empire" has always been a good option for certain circumstances.

More and more though, I try to focus on appealing to people's inclination towards consent. When you point out consensual alternatives to the current coercive systems, people seem to be receptive.