Political legitimacy refers to the general belief that a governmental authority is rightful and justified in its exercise of power. Legitimacy can stem from various sources, including democratic elections, adherence to rule of law, and public consent. This concept is crucial as it affects the stability and effectiveness of a government; if citizens perceive a regime as legitimate, they are more likely to comply with its laws and policies. Conversely, a lack of legitimacy can lead to unrest, protests, and, in extreme cases, regime change.