Devolutionary movements are political movements that seek to transfer power from a central government to regional authorities or local governments within a country. These movements often arise due to cultural, linguistic, ethnic, or regional differences that are not adequately represented in the centralized government.
Related terms
Secessionism: Secessionism is an extreme form of devolutionary movement where certain regions aim to completely break away from an existing country and form their own independent state.
Regional autonomy: Regional autonomy refers to granting regions within a country some level of self-governance or decision-making power while still remaining under the umbrella of the central government.
Linguistic nationalism: Linguistic nationalism is a devolutionary movement driven by language differences, where regions seek greater recognition and protection for their distinct linguistic identity.