A political framework where independent states unite to delegate limited powers to a central governing body characterizes a specific type of arrangement. Member states retain ultimate sovereignty and can withdraw from the union if desired. The central authority possesses jurisdiction only over matters explicitly delegated to it by the constituent states, typically focusing on areas such as defense, currency, or foreign policy. Switzerland (historically) and the United States under the Articles of Confederation provide examples of this governmental structure.
This approach offers several advantages, primarily ensuring the preservation of state autonomy and preventing the concentration of power at the national level. It allows diverse regions with distinct interests and cultures to cooperate on specific issues without surrendering their individual identities or self-governance. Historically, it often serves as a transitional phase towards a more unified system or a means to address common challenges without establishing a strong central authority. However, it can also lead to instability and inefficiency due to the inherent weakness of the central government and the potential for conflicting state interests.
