Class 10 Civics - Power Sharing

Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy. It ensures that different social groups and communities have a say in the government.

1. Case Study: Belgium

Belgium is a small country in Europe with a complex ethnic composition:

• 59% Dutch-speaking (Flemish region)
• 40% French-speaking (Wallonia region)
• 1% German-speaking

Accommodation in Belgium:

• Equal number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers in the central government.
• State governments are not subordinate to the Central Government.
• A third kind of government — 'community government' — is elected by people belonging to one language community.

2. Case Study: Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka became independent in 1948. The leaders of the Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over the government by virtue of their majority.

• Sinhala (74%) vs Tamil (18%)
• Majoritarianism: 1956 Act recognized Sinhala as the only official language.
• Led to a Civil War between the two communities.

3. Why is Power Sharing Desirable?

1. Prudential Reasons: It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.
2. Moral Reasons: Power sharing is the essence of democracy. A democratic rule involves sharing power with those affected by its exercise.

4. Forms of Power Sharing

• Horizontal Distribution: Among different organs of government (Legislature, Executive, Judiciary).
• Vertical Distribution: Among governments at different levels (Union, State, Local).
• Among Social Groups: Like religious and linguistic groups.
• Among Political Parties & Interest Groups.

Tip: Compare the contrast between the Belgian model of accommodation and the Sri Lankan model of majoritarianism in your answers! 🗳️