Federalism vs Devolution: A Comparative View

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.

---

Definitions

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

---

Key Differences Between Federalism and Devolution