A coup d'état is a sudden and illegal seizure of power from a government, typically carried out by a small group or military faction. It often occurs in unstable political climates where authority is weak, and discontent is prevalent. Coups may emerge from power struggles, societal unrest, or dissatisfaction with existing leadership. They can lead to significant political upheaval and can disrupt democratic processes. The aftermath often involves implications for governance, security, and international relations, depending on the coup's legitimacy and the response of the global community.