regionalists

Regionalists are individuals, groups, or political movements that seek to elevate the status of a geographic region within a country, usually through greater self-government, distinct administrative powers, or formal recognition of regional identity. They may emphasize language, culture, economics, or historical considerations as a basis for their claims.

Many regionalists aim for increased autonomy within a unitary or federal state rather than full independence, though some advocate sovereignty. Their goals are typically pursued through elections, party platforms, and constitutional or statutory reforms, rather than by violence. They distinguish themselves from centralists who favor strong central authority and from separatists who seek to dissolve the existing state.

Common policy focuses include devolution of powers over health, education, transport, and cultural affairs; fiscal autonomy; and regional development programs. Regionalist movements often push for formal recognition of regional languages and cultural norms and for the representation of regional interests in national politics and intergovernmental forums.

Regionalist currents have been significant in many parts of the world, including Europe, where movements in Catalonia and the Basque Country, Scotland, and Flanders have influenced constitutional debates; and in other regions with strong local identities. The rise of regionalism interacts with debates over decentralization, national unity, and federal design, and it can be a source of democratic participation as well as political contention.