noun
dōshūsei; regional state system
A political and administrative reform proposal in Japan to replace the current prefectural system with a smaller number of larger regional states (often 7, 9, or 11). The term is primarily used in policy and academic contexts.
道州制の導入について議論が続いている。
Debate continues over the introduction of the regional state system.
道州制が実現すれ
If the regional state system is realized, it is expected to promote decentralization.
Decentralization of power to local governments, a key goal of the 道州制 proposal.
Compound of 道 (dō, 'circuit' or 'region'), 州 (shū, 'state'), and 制 (sei, 'system'). The term was coined in modern Japanese political discourse to describe a proposed regional administrative structure.