ThinkRankPower Sharing
Overview
This chapter explains why sharing power is important in a democracy and shows how different countries adopted it to manage social divisions and political stability.
Learning Objectives
- Explain why power sharing reduces conflict
- Identify different forms of power sharing
- Compare Belgium and Sri Lanka’s approaches
Key Concepts
Why Share Power?
Power sharing prevents concentration of authority and reduces the chance of conflict between social groups.
Belgium’s Model
Belgium shared power between Dutch and French communities and created regional governments to ensure equality.
Sri Lanka’s Majoritarianism
Policies favoring the Sinhala majority marginalized Tamils and led to civil conflict.
Types of Power Sharing
Power can be shared horizontally among organs, vertically among levels, and socially among groups or parties.
Democratic Spirit
Sharing power builds participation and trust, strengthening democracy.
Majority Rule with Minority Rights
Democracies combine majority decisions with safeguards for minority communities.
Political Stability
Power sharing reduces unrest by giving groups a stake in governance.
Key Terms
Examples
Brussels Arrangement
Equal representation of Dutch and French communities in the capital reduced tensions.
Sinhala Only Act
Language policies in Sri Lanka excluded Tamils from public opportunities.
Quick Check
- Why is power sharing desirable?
- Name two forms of power sharing.
- What went wrong in Sri Lanka?