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This lesson compares federalism and devolution as models for distributing power between central and regional governments. Understanding the differences and similarities between these models is essential for evaluating the UK's devolution settlement and the arguments for and against a federal UK.
| Model | Definition | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Federalism | Power is constitutionally divided between central (federal) and regional (state) governments. Each level has its own defined powers and neither can abolish the other. | USA, Germany, Canada, Australia |
| Devolution | Power is delegated from the centre to regional bodies. The centre retains sovereignty and can, in principle, take the power back. | UK (Scotland, Wales, NI), Spain |
| Unitary state | All power resides with the central government. Regional bodies (if they exist) act as agents of the centre. | France (traditionally), Japan |
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