What principle involves the division of powers between federal and provincial governments?

The principle that involves the division of powers between federal and provincial governments is federalism. In Canada, federalism is a foundational constitutional concept that defines the relationship and distribution of authority between the national and provincial governments. It establishes a system of governance where both levels of government have distinct areas of jurisdiction, allowing them to operate independently within their respective spheres.

Federalism promotes a balance of power, helping to accommodate the diverse needs and interests of the various provinces and territories while maintaining a cohesive national framework. This division of powers is outlined in Canada's Constitution Act, 1867, which enumerates the specific powers allocated to each level of government, thereby ensuring that neither level oversteps its bounds.

The other principles mentioned, such as the rule of law, democracy, and judicial independence, while important to the functioning of the state, do not specifically address the division of powers between governments in the Canadian context. The rule of law pertains to the supremacy of law and its application to all individuals, democracy addresses citizens' participation in governance, and judicial independence ensures that the judiciary operates free from external pressures. However, it is federalism that directly relates to how Canada structures its governmental authority between the federal and provincial levels.