What does decentralization refer to in a political context?

Decentralization in a political context refers to the distribution of authority and responsibilities away from a central authority to local or regional governments. This concept emphasizes the transfer of power to local entities, enabling them to make decisions that affect their own jurisdictions.

Thus, the correct answer reflects the idea that decentralization means local governments or authorities operate with a degree of independence, managing their own affairs rather than being tightly controlled by a central government. This allows for greater flexibility and responsiveness to local needs.

The notion of cohesion among authorities is crucial; in a decentralized system, various local authorities can often operate independently, sometimes leading to a lack of uniformity in governance. This differentiation can foster a more tailored approach to local governance, which may contrast with the centralization described in other options. Centralization implies a top-down approach, where regional entities lack significant decision-making power. In such scenarios, local governments may become mere extensions of central authority rather than autonomous actors.