régionalisme

Régionalisme is a concept referring to the identification with and loyalty to a particular region or regions, often to the exclusion of broader national or international affiliations. This can manifest in various ways, including cultural, linguistic, political, and economic spheres. Culturally, régionalisme may involve the promotion and preservation of distinct regional traditions, dialects, folklore, and artistic expressions. Linguistically, it can lead to the recognition and support of regional languages or dialects as separate from a dominant national language. Politically, régionalisme can drive movements for greater regional autonomy, self-governance, or even separatism, where a region seeks to establish its own political entity. Economically, it might involve advocating for policies that benefit the specific region, such as local development initiatives or protectionist measures against outside competition. The strength and nature of régionalisme can vary significantly depending on historical context, the specific region's characteristics, and the prevailing political and social climate. It is often contrasted with nationalism, which focuses on loyalty to a nation-state, though the two can sometimes overlap or be in tension with each other.