Government's legitimacy

Definition

Government's legitimacy refers to the acceptance and recognition by its citizens or other states that a government has the right to rule. It is based on factors such as having popular support, upholding the rule of law, providing public goods and services effectively, ensuring stability and security.

Related terms

Democratic legitimacy: The acceptance by citizens that their government has been chosen through free and fair elections where individuals have participated freely without coercion.

Authoritarian regime: A form of government characterized by strong central power where political power is concentrated in few individuals or an elite group without the consent or participation of citizens.

Soft power: The ability of a country to influence other countries through cultural, economic, and diplomatic means without relying on military force.