Power Sharing

Belgium and Sri Lanka

To deal with conflicts arising out of language diversity, Sri Lanka applied
Majoritarianism and Belgium used Accommodation approach.

The Sri Lanka Tamils began an upheaval with the objectives of acknowledging
Tamil as an official language and to bring a about social and political equality and
regional sovereignty.

Belgium took up the approach of accommodation as a positive step to resolve their

cultural differences.

Belgium ensured stability through its policy of Accommodation; whereas in sri

Lanka, majoritarianism continues to be a threat to the unity and growth of the
country.

Different Types of Power Sharing

Power sharing is desirable as it reduces conflicts, ensures stability and unity, and
enhances citizen’s participation.

The two major reasons that make power sharing in a democracy desirable are
prudential and moral.

The four common forms of power sharing are Horizontal, Vertical, in Social
groups and among Political parties and pressure groups.