Introduction: A Research Agenda for Federalism Studies

Abstract

This book conveys current and original reflections of 16 leading scholars from five continents on the past, present, and future of federalism research. They analyze the state of research on key facets of federalism worldwide and present ideas for new research to further understanding of federalism as a principle and mode of governance. Although only about 28 countries are arguably federal, more than 40 per cent of the world’s people live in federal systems, making federalism a leading mode of governance, potential basis for democracy, and means to accommodate diverse, territorially based national, linguistic, ethnic, racial, and/or religious communities in a single polity. Federalism is a very important principle of governance, one that is, in many cases, the only viable means to achieve unity peacefully and democratically in the face of human diversity. The contributors address research gaps, needs, and directions in normative political theory, constitutionalism, comparative governance, fiscal systems, gender, territorial diversity, nationalism, conflict resolution, shared rule, and federalism challenges in Africa, Asia, and the European Union.