What autonomy is granted to autonomous regions in China?

Autonomous regions in China are designed to recognize and provide some degree of self-governance to ethnic minority groups. They have the authority to rule over areas where these significant local populations reside, reflecting their cultural and ethnic identities while still being subject to the overarching authority of the central government.

These regions can implement certain local policies, celebrate local customs, and govern local affairs to an extent, which relates to their demographic composition. However, this autonomy is not absolute; the central government retains significant control over key issues such as defense, foreign policy, and major economic decisions. The structure of governance in autonomous regions is intended to give a semblance of local control and recognition of ethnic diversity, which is why the option regarding ruling over areas with significant local populations is the most accurate in describing the autonomy granted to these regions.