The development of asymmetric regionalism and the principle of autonomy in the new constitutional systems : a comparative approach

Abstract

Federal states were created with the purpose of providing an answer to the need for unity; but currently, the "centripetal" trend of the original federalism is confronted with a more "centrifugal" inclination to promote autonomy and differentiation. The reasons for this trend are various: there is a connection between autonomy and the recognition of cultural differences; autonomy constitutes the means through which specific communities acquire a political representation, and tends to minimize the distance between governing authorities and citizens. The positive outcome of the process of decentralization is based on the ability to reach a balance between the constitutional principle of autonomy, the principle of equality (in the enjoyment of social and economic rights) and of solidarity (between territories).