Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central governing authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces. It allows for shared sovereignty, where both the central government and the subnational units possess separate and autonomous powers, and each level of government exercises authority within its own sphere. This system promotes a balance between the central authority and regional governments, ensuring that certain powers are delegated to the central government while others are reserved for the subnational units. The division of powers is usually outlined in a written constitution, which delineates the respective responsibilities and jurisdictions of each level of government. Federalism is commonly found in countries with large territories, diverse populations, or significant regional differences. Examples include the United States, Canada, Australia, Germany, Brazil, and others.
