Yksittäisvaltiossa

Yksittäisvaltiossa is a Finnish term that translates to "in a unitary state." It describes a system of government where a single, central government holds supreme authority. In such a state, sub-national administrative divisions, like provinces or municipalities, exist but their powers are delegated by the central government and can be altered or revoked by it. There is no constitutional division of powers between the central government and regional or local entities; all sovereignty resides with the central authority.

This contrasts with a federal system, where power is constitutionally divided between a central government and constituent political units (like states or provinces), each with its own sphere of authority. In a unitary state, the central government can create, abolish, or modify regional and local administrative units and their powers at its discretion. Legislation passed by the central parliament is typically the supreme law of the land throughout the entire territory. Examples of unitary states include France, the United Kingdom, and Japan. The degree of decentralization can vary significantly within unitary states, with some granting considerable autonomy to local governments, while others maintain a highly centralized structure.