Ethiopia is divided into 11 regions that serve as the primary administrative subdivisions of the federal government. These regions form the first level in Ethiopia's two-tier administrative structure and exercise significant autonomy under the country's ethnic federalism system. Regional governments maintain their own executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and hold authority over matters including education, health services, land administration, local infrastructure, and regional police forces. They collect certain taxes, manage regional budgets, and implement policies tailored to their specific populations. The regions also preserve and promote the distinct languages, cultures, and identities of Ethiopia's diverse ethnic groups. This decentralized system allows each region to address local needs while coordinating with the federal government on national matters such as defense, foreign policy, and interstate commerce.