legitimiteetin

Legitimiteetti, in political theory, refers to the recognized right to exercise authority. In English the term is legitimacy, and it denotes the extent to which a government, institution, or leader is considered appropriate and just to hold power and to enforce rules. Legitimacy is distinct from legality: something may be legal according to law but lack popular legitimacy, while broad legitimacy can exist even when formal legality is contested.

Historically, sociologist Max Weber articulated three classic sources of legitimacy: traditional authority rooted in long-standing practices and customs; charismatic authority based on the personal appeal and leadership of a figure; and rational-legal authority grounded in formal rules, procedures, and institutions. Most modern states rely primarily on rational-legal legitimacy, reinforced by constitutions, the rule of law, elections, and bureaucratic administration, while traditional or charismatic elements can accompany regimes and shape public perception.

Legitimacy is often analyzed along several dimensions: consent, performance, and normative justification. Consent involves participatory rights, elections, and accountability mechanisms that allow citizens to influence governance. Performance refers to the government’s ability to deliver public goods, maintain security, and uphold public trust. Normative justification concerns alignment with shared values, human rights, justice, and the legitimacy of the political order itself.

Legitimacy is not static; it can be challenged during crises, whether due to failures of governance, coercive practices, or perceived violations of core principles. In international relations, the legitimacy of states and multilateral actions affects recognition, diplomacy, and cooperation, influencing how far external actors support or contest a government. Critics note that legitimacy can be instrumentalized or contested, while supporters emphasize its role in stable, cooperative governance.