Explain Federalism.

Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided and shared between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces. This division of power allows for a balance between national unity and local autonomy, with each level of government having its own sphere of authority and responsibility.

In a federal system, the central government possesses certain powers that are outlined in the constitution or legislation, while the constituent units retain their own powers and authority. These powers may include areas such as defense, foreign policy, currency, and interstate commerce for the central government, while the constituent units have authority over areas such as education, healthcare, transportation, and local governance.

Federalism is characterized by the principle of dual sovereignty, which means that both the central government and the constituent units derive their authority from the constitution and operate independently within their respective spheres. This allows for a degree of decentralization and flexibility in governance, as different regions or states may have different needs, priorities, and policies.

Federal systems often feature mechanisms for resolving conflicts or disputes between the central government and constituent units, such as judicial review, intergovernmental negotiations, or federalism commissions. These mechanisms help to maintain the balance of power and ensure cooperation and coordination between different levels of government.

Examples of federal systems include the United States, Canada, Germany, Australia, and India. In these countries, power is divided between a central government and subnational entities, such as states, provinces, or territories, each with its own government and authority. Federalism allows for the accommodation of diverse interests, cultures, and preferences within a single political framework, while also promoting unity, stability, and cooperation among different regions or states.