FEDERALISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL CONSTITUTIONALISM IN THE GLOBAL SOUTH: EMERGING GLOBAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL DIMENSIONS

Abstract

Federalism and developmental constitutionalism have emerged as interconnected constitutional paradigms in the Global South, particularly within postcolonial societies addressing nation-building, socio-economic inequality, and institutional transformation. Unlike classical liberal constitutionalism, developmental constitutionalism views constitutional governance as a tool for social justice, economic development, and inclusive governance, while federalism functions as a mechanism for decentralized administration and participatory democracy. Globalization and technological transformation have further reshaped federal governance through digital governance, artificial intelligence, data regulation, cybersecurity, and climate governance, challenging traditional constitutional structures. Consequently, federal systems in the Global South must adapt to emerging technological realities while preserving constitutional autonomy and democratic accountability. This chapter examines the relationship between federalism and developmental constitutionalism through comparative and postcolonial perspectives, focusing on countries such as India, Brazil, Nigeria, South Africa, and Ethiopia. It explores emerging concepts including digital federalism, data sovereignty, climate federalism, and transformative constitutionalism within contemporary governance frameworks. The chapter argues that federalism in the Global South is a dynamic constitutional process shaped by historical inequalities, technological change, and developmental aspirations. It concludes that the future of developmental federalism lies in cooperative governance, digital constitutionalism, and inclusive socio-economic transformation.