juntahallitus

A *juntahallitus* (Finnish for "junta government") refers to a form of authoritarian rule in which a small group of military or political leaders seizes power, often through a coup d'état, and governs without democratic legitimacy. The term is derived from the Spanish *junta*, meaning "committee" or "council," which historically described temporary governing bodies during crises. In modern usage, it typically implies a regime characterized by centralized control, suppression of opposition, and disregard for constitutional processes.

Junta governments frequently emerge in contexts of political instability, economic crisis, or perceived threats to national security. They often justify their rule by invoking exceptional circumstances, arguing that democratic governance is inadequate to address pressing challenges. Military juntas, in particular, have been common in Latin America, Africa, and parts of Asia, where coups have periodically disrupted democratic transitions.

The structure of a junta government usually involves a small, elite leadership—often including military officers, politicians, or bureaucrats—who make decisions collectively or through a dominant figure. Civil liberties are typically restricted, with opposition parties banned, media censored, and dissent punished. While some juntas have attempted to legitimize their rule through elections or constitutional amendments, these processes are often manipulated to ensure continued control.

Historically, junta governments have been criticized for their lack of accountability, human rights abuses, and failure to address root causes of instability. Many have been overthrown through popular uprisings, military defections, or international pressure. In contemporary contexts, the term is sometimes used more broadly to describe any undemocratic regime, though it retains a specific connotation tied to coup-based rule. The study of juntas falls within broader academic discussions on authoritarianism, military politics, and democratic backsliding.