5.3 Devolution

What is Devolution?

Devolution is the transfer of political power from a national (central) government to subnational units like regions, states, or localities, without the central government giving up ultimate sovereignty. It differs from federalism because the central government can, in theory, reclaim these powers since they are granted by statute, not constitutionally entrenched.

Why Devolve Power?

Governments devolve power to manage ethnic, regional, or nationalist tensions, improve responsiveness to local needs, and reduce separatist pressure. Examples include the UK creating the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly, Nigeria's regional governance amid ethnic diversity, and Mexico's decentralization efforts. Devolution can strengthen unity by accommodating diversity, or it can encourage further demands for autonomy/independence.

Devolution vs. Federalism vs. Unitary Systems

In a unitary system, power is centralized, but devolution creates regional bodies with delegated authority. Unlike federal systems, where subunits' powers are constitutionally protected, devolved powers can be altered or revoked by the central legislature. This makes devolution a flexible tool, but also a potentially unstable one if regions push for greater independence.

Key terms

Devolution

Transfer of power from a central government to subnational units, without the center losing ultimate sovereignty.

Devolution vs. Federalism

Devolved powers can be revoked by the central government (statutory); federal powers are constitutionally protected and harder to remove.

Reason for Devolution

Manage ethnic/regional tensions, increase local responsiveness, and reduce separatist pressures.

UK Example of Devolution

Creation of the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly, giving regional governments legislative power within a unitary state.

Risk of Devolution

Granting regional autonomy can encourage further demands for independence or secession.

Try an AP-style question

Devolution in the UK gave power to…

1. the unelected House of Lords
2. Scotland, Wales, and N. Ireland
3. the European Union's parliament
4. the monarch and royal household