federalisme

Federalism is a system of government in which sovereignty is constitutionally divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states, provinces, or cantons. In a federal state, the central government handles national concerns—defense, foreign policy, monetary policy—while regional governments manage local matters such as education and policing. The precise allocation of powers is set out in a written constitution, and most federations include mechanisms to resolve disputes and change the division of powers, usually requiring consent from both levels. The term is federalism in English; in French and several other languages, the term is federalisme.

Federal arrangements differ from unitary states, where central authorities hold primary sovereignty and local units administer delegated powers; and from confederations, where subunits retain extensive sovereignty and the central authority is weak. In federalism, powers may be exclusive to one level, exclusive to the other, or shared (concurrent). The principle of subsidiarity often guides the handling of issues at the most appropriate level.

Most federations recognize some degree of asymmetry among regions; some regions may have special autonomy, arrangements, or budgetary powers. Examples of federal systems include the United States, Canada, Germany, Australia, and Switzerland, each with its own constitutional design and practices. Other countries, such as India, Brazil, or Russia, show federal features with varying degrees of central control and regional autonomy.

Critiques of federalism point to both strengths and weaknesses. It can protect regional identities and minority rights, prevent the concentration of power, and accommodate diversity; but it can also cause intergovernmental gridlock, duplication of administration, and fiscal disparities. Successful federal systems rely on clear constitutional rules, robust dispute-resolution mechanisms, and cooperative intergovernmental relations.