Which term refers to the distribution of power between a central authority and constituent units?

Federalism is the term that describes the distribution of power between a central authority and constituent units, such as states or provinces. In a federal system, both the national and regional governments have their own areas of jurisdiction, allowing each to operate independently in certain matters while still being part of a larger governmental framework. This division of powers promotes a balance between central governance and local autonomy, and allows for diverse governance structures that can cater to the needs of different regions within a country.

In federal systems, the constitution typically outlines the powers and responsibilities allocated to each level of government. This arrangement contrasts with a confederation, where the central authority has limited power and the constituent units retain significant independence. Decentralization relates to the transfer of power from central to local governments but doesn’t necessarily imply a formalized structure like federalism. Centralism, on the other hand, refers to a concentration of authority at the national level, diminishing the power of regional or local governments.