Unitary Form of Government: Meaning, Features & Merits

Introduction

The Unitary Form of Government is a system in which all powers are concentrated in a single central authority. Unlike federal systems, there is no constitutional division of powers between the central and regional governments. Local or regional units exist, but they function under the control of the central government.

This form of government is commonly followed in small or politically homogeneous countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Japan, and Sri Lanka.

Meaning of Unitary Form of Government

The Unitary Form of Government refers to a system where:

• There is one central government

• All political power is vested in the centre

• Regional or local governments have delegated powers, not independent authority

• The central government can create or abolish local units

The Constitution, if present, establishes the supremacy of the central authority.

Origin and Development

The unitary system developed mainly in European countries, especially where:

• The territory was small

• The population was culturally similar

• Strong central administration was needed

The United Kingdom is considered the classical example of a unitary government, although it has adopted administrative decentralization in recent times.

Main Features of Unitary Form of Government

1. Single Central Authority

The most important feature of a unitary system is the existence of a single central government.
All major powers—legislative, executive, and financial—are exercised by the centre.

2. No Constitutional Division of Powers

Unlike federal governments, powers are not divided by the Constitution.
Any authority exercised by local governments is granted by the central government.

3. Supremacy of the Central Government

The central government is supreme and can:

• Modify local boundaries

• Abolish local governments

• Withdraw powers granted to regional units

4. Uniform Administration

A unitary system ensures uniform laws and policies across the country.
This helps maintain national unity and consistency.

5. Administrative Decentralization

Although power is centralized, the centre may delegate authority to local bodies for administrative convenience.
However, such decentralization does not weaken the supremacy of the centre.

6. Single Constitution and Citizenship

Most unitary governments have:

• One Constitution

• Single citizenship

• A unified judicial system

Merits (Advantages) of Unitary Form of Government

1. Strong National Unity

Centralized authority strengthens national integration and prevents regionalism.

2. Efficient and Quick Decision-Making

Decisions can be taken quickly without lengthy consultations between different levels of government.

3. Uniform Laws and Policies

A single authority ensures uniformity in laws, administration, and justice.

4. Economical Administration

A unitary system avoids duplication of institutions, making it cost-effective.

5. Suitable for Small Countries

This system works best for small countries with homogeneous populations.

Demerits (Disadvantages) of Unitary Form of Government

1. Overburdened Central Government

The central authority may become overloaded with responsibilities.

2. Neglect of Local Interests

Local needs and regional diversity may be ignored due to excessive centralization.

3. Possibility of Authoritarianism

Concentration of power may lead to dictatorship or misuse of authority.

4. Not Suitable for Large Countries

Large and diverse countries require decentralization for effective governance.

5. Reduced Local Participation

Limited powers of local governments may weaken grassroots democracy.

Unitary Form of Government vs Federal Form of Government

Countries Following Unitary Form of Government

Some examples of countries with unitary systems are:

• United Kingdom

• France

• Japan

• Sri Lanka

• China

Unitary Features in India

Although India is a federal country, it has unitary features, such as:

• Strong central government

• Single Constitution

• Single citizenship

• Emergency provisions

This is why India is often described as a “quasi-federal” system.

Conclusion

The Unitary Form of Government is a system that emphasizes centralization, unity, and administrative efficiency. While it ensures strong national control and uniform policies, it may overlook local needs and diversity.

The success of a unitary system depends on:

• Size of the country

• Administrative efficiency

• Democratic values

When properly balanced with decentralization, it can be an effective form of governance.