delegitimizing

Delegitimizing refers to processes by which the perceived legitimacy of a person, group, institution, idea, or regime is challenged or eroded. It involves portraying the target as lacking rightful authority, credibility, or moral standing, often to justify exclusion, withdrawal of support, or coercive measures. Delegitimization can be explicit, such as official declarations of illegitimacy, or implicit, embedded in discourse or policy choices that signal disapproval.

Mechanisms include discursive strategies (pejorative labels, framing as corrupt or immoral), procedural challenges (questioning legality, elections), and institutional actions (sanctions, non-recognition, disqualification from forums), as well as social mechanisms (norms, stigma, boycott). It often relies on appeals to universals such as sovereignty, democracy, security, or morality to delegitimize the target while preserving one’s own legitimacy.

Contexts range from domestic politics (opposition parties or movements) to international relations (unrecognized governments, sanctions regimes) and organizational governance (unions or corporations). Delegitimization can accompany or precede formal coercive measures and may be reciprocal when actors attempt to delegitimate each other.

Effects may include reduced compliance, erosion of trust, and heightened polarization. Critics warn that delegitimization can suppress dissent or distort debate, while proponents view it as a legitimate tool to defend norms or expose abuse of power. The boundary between critique and delegitimization can blur when evidence is selective or rhetoric is compelling.

See also: legitimacy, legitimization, discourse analysis, political rhetoric.