Unitary, federal and confederal systems

Unitary

One governing body. Centralized power Local govs. when they exist are subordinate to national gov and all they do is implement its policies. The central gov. can delegate power and take it away. Could disregard local differences

Federalism

Powers are divided between the national government and the states or provinces. Both orders of gov are sovereign. Could sacrifice national uniformity in some issues. This system accommodates both mutual benefits and the individuality of the regions

Confederate

The opposite of unitary, the powers reside entirely with the member states. The states can create a union or alliance to achieve common goods. They lent the power to a national government, but can take it away. Member states can pull from that union at any time. Could have less significant uniform policies.