Managing Interdependencies in Federal Systems

Intergovernmental councils play a crucial role in enhancing federal stability by promoting coordination among governments in a federation. The book explores how these councils serve as safeguards against destabilizing policy problems by facilitating cooperation in public service delivery. Through comparative analysis of fiscal and education policy reforms in Australia, Canada, Germany, and Switzerland, it highlights that the councils' effectiveness hinges on their institutional design and their relationship with other political mechanisms. Key factors include their ability to manage contentious issues and foster consensus.