(a)What is a confederation? (b) Highlight the problems that are likely to arise in a confederal state.

Answer Details

(a) Meaning of a confederation

A confederation is a loose union of independent and sovereign states which come together, usually by treaty or agreement, to form a central authority for the purpose of pursuing common goals such as defence, trade or foreign relations. In a confederation the component states retain their sovereignty and delegate only limited powers to the weak central body, and each state reserves the right to secede from the union at will. Examples include the old Senegambia Confederation and the early United States under the Articles of Confederation.

(b) Problems likely to arise in a confederal state

1. Weak central government: Because most powers remain with the component states, the central authority is too weak to enforce its decisions or provide effective leadership.
2. Threat of secession and disintegration: Since each unit retains the right to withdraw, the union is unstable and constantly threatened with break-up.
3. Difficulty in decision-making: Important decisions often require the consent of all or most of the units, which makes the process slow and cumbersome.
4. Lack of uniformity: Differences in laws, policies, currencies and standards among the units create confusion and hamper cooperation.
5. Rivalry and disunity among the units: Individual states may pursue selfish interests, leading to distrust, conflict and lack of common purpose.
6. Financial weakness: The central body depends on contributions from the units, which may be irregular or inadequate, leaving it poorly funded and ineffective.