stateswould
stateswould is a term used in political theory and speculative fiction to describe a proposed framework for interstate cooperation within federations. In this model, states voluntarily adopt conditional policy commitments that resemble national-level agreements but are implemented primarily at the subnational level. The word combines "states" and "would" to emphasize hypothetical, non-binding cooperation rather than a formal constitutional mandate.
Core features include soft compacts, reciprocity clauses, sunset provisions, and a coordinating interstate council. Under stateswould,
Origin and reception: The term arose in early 21st-century speculative policy discussions and has been used
Criticism and limitations: Critics argue it can dilute democratic legitimacy, produce uneven benefits, and create enforcement
See also: federalism, intergovernmental organizations, conditional sovereignty, mutual aid agreements, policy diffusion.