Which governance approach is commonly used to manage multiple national groups within a single state by granting regional autonomy?

• A. Unitary system
• B. Isolationism
• C. Federalism
• D. Anarchism

Answer: (C)

Federalism is the governance arrangement that recognizes and accommodates diversity within a state by dividing authority between a central government and regional governments. This constitutional split lets different national or regional groups govern themselves in certain areas—such as education, language, culture, and local administration—while still belonging to the same country. It provides a framework for managing multiple identities by granting regional autonomy, reducing tensions, and allowing local needs to be addressed without fracturing the state. In contrast, a unitary system concentrates power at the national level and can limit regional autonomy, making it less suitable for states with distinct regional or national groups. Isolationism focuses on avoiding relations with other states, and anarchism envisions no formal government at all, neither of which addresses how a state organizes authority among diverse groups.