Power sharing is a system of governance that provides all major segments of society a permanent share of power, as opposed to rotating power among groups over time. Belgium uses power sharing by giving equal representation to its French- and Dutch-speaking communities in central government and devolving powers to state governments representing each community. This has helped accommodate regional diversity and avoid civil strife. Similarly, Sri Lanka practiced majoritarian rule that increased tensions with its Tamil minority, leading to civil war, demonstrating why power sharing that gives minorities a voice is desirable.