Federacja

Federacja, or federation, is a political system in which sovereignty is divided between a central government and constituent political units, such as states or regions, under a constitution. The core idea is to unite geographically or culturally diverse communities while preserving a degree of local self-government. The term derives from Latin foedus, treaty, and entered many languages through French fédération.

In a federation, powers are allocated formally by the constitution, with certain domains reserved for the central government and others for the member units. The central government typically handles defense, foreign affairs, monetary policy, and nationwide standards, while regional governments manage education, local law, transportation, and taxation within their jurisdictions. Both levels may have their own legislatures and courts, and constitutional courts resolve intergovernmental disputes.

Federations vary in structure. Some are symmetrical, granting similar powers to all units; others are asymmetrical, granting broader autonomy to certain regions. A federation is distinct from a confederation, where member states retain sovereignty and the central authority has limited powers. Many federations include a bicameral legislature allowing one house to represent regional interests.

Notable examples include the United States, Germany, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, India, and Russia’s system of federal subjects. The concept has appeared in various historical contexts, with federations forming during nation-building processes in the 18th to 20th centuries to reconcile unity with regional diversity.

Contemporary debates around federalism address fiscal equalization, intergovernmental cooperation, decentralization, and the risk of regional disparities or secessionist movements. Constitutional reform or decentralization plans are common tools to adjust the balance of power between levels of government.