Regional autonomy refers to the ability of a specific area or region to govern itself and make decisions independently from the central government. This can include control over local laws, education, and economic policies, allowing regions to address their unique needs and cultural identities. Many countries implement regional autonomy to promote local governance and enhance citizen participation. Examples include the Basque Country in Spain and Scotland in the United Kingdom, where regional governments have significant powers to legislate and manage local affairs while still being part of the larger national framework.