Local governments derive their authority from which level of government?

Local governments derive their authority primarily from state governments. This relationship is grounded in the principle of federalism, where power and authority are distributed among different levels of government. In the United States, for example, state constitutions and statutes establish the framework within which local governments operate, granting them the power to enact laws, regulate affairs, and deliver services at the local level.

State governments create local governments and define their structure, functions, and powers, including the ability to raise revenue and make policy decisions. This delegation of authority allows local entities to tailor their governance to the specific needs and priorities of their communities, making them responsive to local issues.

On the other hand, federal governments primarily deal with national issues and do not directly grant authority to local governments. International organizations and private entities do not have the legal power to establish or govern local government structures, as they operate outside the framework of domestic law and governance. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the essential role of state governments in establishing and empowering local governments.