In a previous article on “subsidiarity” (in “Hopes and Fears: The Human Future”, ed. by Hanna Newcombe, publ. by Science for Peace, Toronto, 1992), a multi-level structure for world governance is suggested, to observe both the principles of decentralization (to have government close to the people and maximize democracy) and centralization (to make possible the necessary global planning for environmental security and security from large-scale violence and war.). However, it remains to be specified which governmental functions would best be performed at which level.

There is no final recipe for this division of powers; jurisdictional disputes have always been a problem in any federation, and this will continue to be so. It is likely to be an even bigger problem when there are six levels rather than only two or three. The apportionment will certainly change from time to time, perhaps frequently.

Nevertheless, we present below a highly tentative and sketchy scheme as a beginning of discussion. It is presented only in point form, with possible enlargement later, and without detailed justifications, which would be premature.

The outline follows.

Global Issues.

• Maintenance of international peace and security.
• Subdivisions: Conflict resolution and dispute settlement.
• Peace-keeping (lightly armed).
• Interposition in a war to stop it.
• Humanitarian intervention.
• Disarmament verification.
• Environmental improvement and pollution prevention.
• Sustainable development, with proper regard for limits.
• Human rights.
• Economic equalization between regions and nations.
• Rules of conduct for transnational enterprises.
• Global Institutions.
• World Parliament.
• World Court.
• International Criminal Court.
• Disarmament Verification Agency.
• Mediation Board and Arbitration Tribunal.
• Military staff headquarters.
• Environmental Authority.
• Development Fund.
• Seabed Authority.
• Human Rights Commission.

Regional Issues.

• Regional peace-keeping for regional conflicts.
• Regional mediation and arbitration.
• Economic, trade, and monetary coordination.
• Major waterways and watershed management.
• State/National Issues.
• Internal police forces.
• Taxation.
• Health and Welfare Legislation.
• Labour Laws.
• Issuing currency.
• Provincial/State/Cantonal/Laender Issues.
• Education.
• Health and welfare administration.
• Transportation: roads, railways, mass transit.
• Management of local waterways.

Municipal Issues.

• Sewage disposal.
• Garbage collection and recycling.
• Local by-laws (traffic, noise abatement etc.).
• Public transit.
• Parks and recreation.
• Public works.
• Cultural events, festivals etc.

Neighbourhood issues.

• Children’s play areas.
• Cooperative daycare facilities.
• Exchange of services: baby-sitting, shopping, dress-making, household repairs, hair-cutting, etc.
• Maintenance of properties and facilities.
• Local rules about access etc.
• Security against crime (neighbourhood watch).
• Individual Rights and Responsibilities.
• Right to vote along with responsibility to be informed.
• Professional oaths of ethical responsibility.
• Freedom of speech and duty to speak out if needed.