A Unitary system or unitary Government is a governing system in which a single central government has all the power over its political subdivisions. A unitary government in contrast to a federation where governmental powers and responsibilities are divided. In a unitary state, the political subdivisions must implement the directives of the central government but they lack the power to act on their own.

In a unitary system, the central government has the final say in every decision. It can decide to create or abolish administrative decisions, and may grant some power to its local governments through “devolution.” However, the central government has the supreme power and it can repeal the powers it granted to local government.

A unitary government is in the contrast with a federal government. A federal state sees the national government as being an equal actor with the other levels of required governing. It is an organized union or alliance of partially self-governing states or other regions under a federal government. These states enjoy partial independence in their internal affairs which is contrary to what happens in a unitary government.

Examples of Unitary Government

There are more countries in the world which has a unitary system of government as compared to federations. France and United Kingdom are two well-recognized examples. Other notable unitary states include Japan, Italy, the Philippines, and the Peoples Republic of China.

Pros of Unitary System

Unitary government has been in existence for many years. It is the most popular system of government in the world. Here is a list of the pros of the unitary government.

• Less Confusion Over the Governing Process

In a unitary state, the average citizen is less confused over the governing process. As compared to a Federation, it is easy to understand the governing process in a unitary government. For example, In United States, citizens are subject to four governing bodies’ laws. If you decide to travel to a different town in a neighboring county, you are subject to the local laws. Also, you also follow the city’s rules. And you also follow different state laws. For example, if you buy something from a state where it is legal and move into another state where it is illegal, you can face problems if you don’t know about these laws.

It is a big advantage of the unitary system. The governing process is clear and citizens are allowed to do without thinking too much. It reduces the risk of unknown violations of the law.

• Quick Response in Emergency

The structure of the unitary system gives powers to a single governing body. This is helpful in emergency situations because there are not multiple layers of bureaucracy to navigate through so the resources can get to where they need to be. Whenever an unexpected situation arises like, war, riots, or a natural disaster, the government can act fast with more accuracy. There is no need to get approval from various governments. When the local government waits for the gesture of the federal government, it can create a delay.

• Less Expensive

A unitary system is run under one single structure. Because there are not many layers of bureaucracy in this system of government, there are fewer administrative costs to manage with this centralized government. It provides a smaller structure to the overall state of the nation, potentially reducing the burden on the citizens and the government won’t have to do anything. This gives financial benefits to those who are out of work for long or with a disability which keeps them out of the labor force.

• The Government is Smaller

Although the unitary government is just one governing structure, local services are also a priority. The difference between a federation and a unitary system is also how the communities get this resource and the way local officials are used. Instead of working with local officials, the centralized state will send a delegate to oversee the needs of each community. It is how government structure works in France. The country has over 1000 local subdivisions called departments. Each is run by one person appointed by the government. This makes things less confusing as just one person is running everything. It gives clarity on the responsibilities.

• Less Complex Legal System

The United States is run under the constitution. It specifically reserved some of the governing powers to the federal government. Other powers are then granted to collective states. But there are some responsibilities which are shared by both. It is not uncommon for the government and the states to see each other face to face. As a result, they turn to the supreme court for answers. The judiciary has to decide which power goes where. This can a time-consuming process. However, it is not an issue with a unitary system because there are no state or local governments.

• Can Replicate Federated States

Although the unitary system is centralized and runs under one governing body, this system can be designed in a way that replicates the style of a federated state. To deal with local matters, the government will place a delegate, ambassador, or someone in a similar position to administer local resources. Citizens can speak to officials, and voice their concerns about local matters. Then these issues are referred to the governing body to ensure that enough attention is given to the problem.

• A Unitary Government Creates Unity

The beauty of the unitary system of the government is that it strives to create a common ground. Instead of divining loyalties between states and the national government, everyone is positioned in a place where they work to support one another. It can be found when the elections are held, and the results of these elections reflect the diversity found in society. On the other hand, the federate system especially where there are two parties, seems to be more of a compromised system.

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