What is federalism?

Federalism is defined as a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces. This division of power creates a dual system of government where both the national and regional governments have their own responsibilities and can operate independently within their respective spheres.

The essence of federalism lies in its ability to allow local governments to address issues that are best managed at a local level while still having a strong central government to handle matters of national importance. This structure fosters a balance between unity and diversity, enabling various regions to reflect their unique needs and cultures while being part of a larger political entity.

In contrast to other governance systems, such as unitary forms where a single centralized authority holds the majority of the power, federalism provides a framework that promotes a more nuanced distribution of authority, enhancing democratic participation and governance responsiveness.