Federalism

The entry illustrates theories and practice of federalism, its historical evolution, institutions, procedures, manifestations, and trends. The first part looks at origins and evolution of the concept, from the classical, coming-together federations to more recent devolutionary federal and regional states and other related expressions, including hybrid forms such as the European Union. It then moves to the most significant constitutional features of federal states, with special regards to constitutional safeguards, rules on the division of powers, and institutions for participation and cooperation among the levels of government. The last part deals with contemporary and future trends of federalism and with the challenges for federal studies in the years to come.