unitäärisvaltio

Unitäärisvaltio is a Finnish term referring to a unitary state. In a unitary state, the central government holds supreme authority, and any administrative divisions or subdivisions (like regions or municipalities) only exercise powers that the central government has delegated to them. These sub-national entities do not possess constitutional or independent authority.

The opposite of a unitary state is a federal state, where power is divided between a central government and regional governments, each with their own constitutionally defined powers. In a unitary system, the central government can create or abolish regional governments and can alter their boundaries or powers at will. Laws passed by the central legislature are typically binding throughout the entire country. While local governments exist, their authority is derived from the central government and can be withdrawn.

Examples of unitary states include France, the United Kingdom, and Japan. The degree of decentralization can vary significantly within unitary states, with some granting more autonomy to sub-national units than others. However, the fundamental principle remains that ultimate sovereignty and power reside with the central government. This structure can lead to more uniform laws and policies across the nation but may also be less responsive to local needs compared to federal systems.