Comparison of federalism and Confederalism. - SS1 Government Past Questions and Answers - page 1

The central government and member states

With the member states

Through consensus or agreement among member states

Federalism is a system of government in which power is shared between a central government and individual member states or regional governments.

The key difference between federalism and confederalism is the degree of power and autonomy granted to the member states. In a federal system, member states retain some sovereignty and autonomy, but the central government has ultimate authority. In a confederal system, member states retain a high degree of sovereignty and autonomy, and the central government has limited authority.