Distinguish between unitary and federal systems.

Distinguishing Between Unitary and Federal Systems:

1. Centralization of Power:**

• Unitary System: In a unitary system, power is concentrated at the central government level. The central government holds ultimate authority, and any subnational entities exist at its discretion. Local governments, if they exist, derive their powers from the central government.
• Federal System: In contrast, federal systems distribute power between a central government and subnational entities, such as states or provinces. Each level of government has its own sphere of authority, and the constitution delineates their respective powers.

2. Division of Powers:**

• Unitary System: There is a lack of constitutional division of powers between levels of government. The central government typically has the authority to delegate powers to local governments but can also revoke them.
• Federal System: Powers are constitutionally divided between the central and subnational governments. Each level of government has specified powers, and they often share concurrent powers, leading to a clear separation of responsibilities.

3. Flexibility and Uniformity:**

• Unitary System: Unitary systems offer greater flexibility in responding to national issues as decisions can be made swiftly by the central government. However, this may result in less regional autonomy and responsiveness to local needs.
• Federal System: Federal systems provide for regional autonomy, allowing subnational entities to tailor policies to local circumstances. This can lead to diversity in laws and policies across regions.

4. Autonomy of Subnational Entities:**

• Unitary System: Subnational entities, if they exist, derive their powers from the central government and can be abolished or altered by the central authority. They operate under the central government's direction.
• Federal System: Subnational entities in a federal system possess inherent powers granted by the constitution. Their existence and powers are protected and cannot be easily altered by the central government.

5. Constitutional Nature:**

• Unitary System: The constitution, if one exists, typically emphasizes the supremacy of the central government. The central authority can unilaterally amend or revise the constitution.
• Federal System: Federal systems have a written constitution that outlines the distribution of powers between the central and subnational governments. Constitutional amendments often require the consent of multiple levels of government.

6. Coordination of Policies:**

• Unitary System: Policies are coordinated and implemented centrally, leading to uniformity across the country. The central government has the authority to standardize laws and policies.
• Federal System: Policies may vary across subnational entities as they have the autonomy to legislate on certain matters. This can lead to diversity in approaches to issues such as education, healthcare, and taxation.

In summary, the key distinction lies in the concentration of power and the distribution of powers between the central and subnational entities. Unitary systems favor centralization and uniformity, while federal systems emphasize the division of powers, regional autonomy, and constitutional protection of subnational entities.