π Understanding Federalism vs. Devolution
Federalism and devolution are both systems of government that involve distributing power, but they do so in fundamentally different ways. Federalism is about dividing power between a central government and regional governments, where both levels have constitutionally protected powers. Devolution, on the other hand, is the transfer of power from a central government to subordinate entities, with the central government retaining ultimate authority.
ποΈ Definition of Federalism
Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a national (federal) government and regional (state or provincial) governments. This division is typically enshrined in a constitution, which specifies the powers and responsibilities of each level of government. Both levels operate with a degree of autonomy.
π€ Definition of Devolution
Devolution is the transfer of powers and responsibilities from a central government to subnational entities, such as regional or local governments. Unlike federalism, the central government retains ultimate sovereignty and can revoke or alter the devolved powers.
π Federalism vs. Devolution: A Detailed Comparison
| Feature |
Federalism |
Devolution |
| Source of Power |
Constitutionally divided |
Delegated by central government |
| Permanence |
Entrenched; requires constitutional amendment to change |
Can be altered or revoked by central government |
| Sovereignty |
Shared between levels of government |
Central government retains ultimate sovereignty |
| Legal Status |
Regional powers are constitutionally protected |
Regional powers are granted by statute |
| Examples |
United States, Canada, Germany |
United Kingdom (Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland) |
π Key Takeaways
- βοΈ Constitutional Basis: Federalism is based on a constitutional division of powers, while devolution is based on a delegation of powers by the central government.
- π‘οΈ Protection of Powers: In federalism, regional powers are constitutionally protected. In devolution, they are not.
- π Sovereignty: Federalism involves shared sovereignty, while devolution maintains central sovereignty.