What characterizes a federal system of governance?

A federal system of governance is defined by the presence of multiple levels of government, which share authority and responsibilities. In such systems, power is divided between a central government and various regional or local governments. This division ensures that while the central government may handle broad national issues, local governments can address more localized concerns, reflecting the diverse needs and preferences of different regions within the country.

This structure allows for a balance of power where neither level of government is entirely sovereign; rather, they operate collaboratively on various matters. In contrast to a unitary system where the central authority holds all power, a federal system emphasizes the coexistence and cooperation of various government levels, which can enhance responsiveness and accountability to the citizenry.

The other options do not accurately represent the federal system. A central authority without local power, retaining all national powers, or delegating them permanently to a committee describes more of a centralized or unitary approach, rather than the cooperative model fundamental to federal governance.