AP Human Geography Political Organization of Space Unit Devolution AP Human Geography Political Organization of Space Unit

What is Devolution? Devolution is the movement of power from the central government to a regional gov’t. Example: Northern Ireland was given its own Parliament from Great Britain in 2002. Devolution can eventually lead to civil war or splitting of a country. Devolution occurs because of centrifugal forces: events and issues that divide.

What are ethnocultural devolutionary movements? Nations or ethnic groups that consider themselves separate from rest of country can cause devolution. The Former Yugoslavia broke apart in 1990s along ethnic and religious lines. Religion, language, ethnicity can all be centrifugal forces

What are economic devolutionary forces? The area feels neglected economically from rest of state. Examples: Island of Sardinia in Italy The area is economically successful and feels held back by rest of state. Examples: Republic of Pampas in southern Brazil. Economic frustration is a centrifugal force.

How does spatial interaction affect devolution? Most devolutionary movements occur on the edges of the state: the coast, along the border, far from capital. Many devolutionary movements occur on islands, separate from state.