Question

Discuss the main points of difference between Federation and Confederation.

State the difference between a federation and a confederation.

How will you differentiate between a Federation and a Confederation?

Distinguish between Federation and Confederation.

Answer 1

Basis	Federation	Confederation
Nature of Union	A permanent union of states under a single constitution.	A loose union of independent states for limited purposes.
Sovereignty	Sovereignty is shared between the central and state governments.	Sovereignty remains fully with the member states.
Central Authority	Central government is strong and has direct control over citizens.	Central authority is weak and acts only as a coordinator.
Source of Power	Powers are constitutionally divided between the center and states.	Powers are voluntarily delegated by the member states.
Right to Secede	No right to secede; states are bound by the federal constitution.	Member states can withdraw from the confederation at any time.
Constitution	Usually has a written and rigid constitution.	No rigid constitution; it's based on treaties or agreements.
Examples:	United States, India, Australia.	Early USA under Articles of Confederation, European Union (partially).