A legitimate government is one that is recognized as being in control of a nation and is given formal recognition, like the exchange of diplomats with other countries. In politics, legitimacy means having the right and acceptance to rule, often based on laws or regulations.
Key aspects of a legitimate government include:
- Democratic Election: It’s considered legitimate if it came to power through a fair election where citizens voted for it, following the law.
- Accountability: A legitimate government is responsible to its citizens. It can be removed from power if it abuses their trust or violates their rights.
- Source of Sovereign Power: In a legitimate government, the ultimate power comes from the people, and all legitimate governments must have the people’s consent.
- Types of Legitimacy: There are three main types of political legitimacy: traditional (based on long-standing customs and traditions), legal (based on laws and regulations), and rational-legal (based on the belief that the government’s actions are appropriate uses of power).
In short, a legitimate government is one that is elected democratically, answers to its citizens, and derives its power from the people’s consent.