Federatsiya

Federatsiya is a term used in political science to describe a system of government where power is divided between a central national government and constituent political units, such as states, provinces, or regions. Each level of government has its own distinct powers and responsibilities, and neither level can unilaterally abolish the other. This division of powers is typically enshrined in a constitution, which serves as the supreme law of the land.

In a federation, subnational units often retain a significant degree of autonomy in areas such as education, local law enforcement, and public health. However, the central government typically holds exclusive authority over matters of national importance, including defense, foreign policy, and currency. The balance of power between the central and subnational governments can vary considerably from one federation to another, and it is often a subject of ongoing political debate and negotiation.

Examples of federations include the United States, Canada, Germany, and Australia. The specific structure and powers of subnational units within these federations differ, reflecting their unique historical and cultural contexts. The concept of federalism is often contrasted with a unitary system, where all governmental power resides in a single, central authority.