What is federalism?

Federalism is defined as a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces. This structure allows for a distribution of authority and responsibilities, enabling both the national and local governments to operate effectively within their own realms while also working together to address issues that affect the nation as a whole.

In a federal system, the central government typically handles matters of national concern, such as defense, foreign policy, and trade, while the local governments manage more localized issues, such as education, zoning, and infrastructure. This division of power ensures that governance is more representative and responsive to the unique needs of different regions, promoting a balance that can prevent the concentration of power in a single authority.

The other definitions do not accurately capture the essence of federalism. A system of government with a single central authority, for instance, indicates a unitary form of government, which centralizes power. A parliamentary structure describes a different system where the executive derives its legitimacy from the legislature and can be dissolved, which contrasts with the independent functions seen in federal systems. Lastly, a system that eliminates local governance is antithetical to the principles of federalism, where local governance is an essential aspect of dividing powers.