Asymmetric federalism: Are federated micro-regions viable?

Abstract

Federated micro-regions are constituent units of federations having a maximum population of 300,000. Many are ethnically based. Although not larger than cities, these 55 territories are, constitutionally speaking, equal entities of their federations and have in some instances even shaped their own foreign policy. This article provides an analysis of their ability to withstand structural constraints and take advantage of the opportunities which smallness offers. In the first part, it discusses problems related to economies of scale and identifies a trend to establish new rather than merge existing federated micro-regions. The second part highlights external relations activities of some federated micro-regions and explains their partly pragmatic, partly political motivation.