Paréage

Paréage is a term derived from the French word pareage, meaning "equal footing" or "sharing". In medieval and early modern Europe, it refers to a form of co-sovereignty or shared rule, typically an agreement between two lords, often a secular lord and an ecclesiastical entity (such as a bishop or abbey), to jointly govern a territory or a city.

Paréage agreements were often established to resolve disputes, facilitate economic development, or provide security for a region. The specific terms of a paréage varied, but generally involved the sharing of revenue, judicial powers, and military responsibilities. Both lords were considered co-rulers, and their decisions required mutual agreement.

The paréage system was particularly prevalent in regions of the Pyrenees mountains, specifically between the counts of Foix and the bishops of Urgell, leading to the historical development of Andorra. The bishop of Urgell and the count of Foix (later succeeded by the King of France and now the President of France) became co-princes of Andorra through a series of paréage agreements.

The paréage system offered a way to maintain stability and avoid conflict in politically complex areas. However, it could also lead to administrative complications and potential disputes between the co-rulers, particularly if their interests diverged. While less common today, the historical legacy of paréage arrangements can still be seen in certain political structures and legal frameworks.