Illegal Seizure of Power: Coups are inherently extra-constitutional and illegal, often involving the suspension of the existing constitution and legal framework.

Military Involvement: The armed forces or a faction within them are the primary actors, using their control over coercive instruments of the state.

Speed and Surprise: Coups are typically swift and decisive, aiming to neutralize the existing leadership before they can react.

Suspension of Democratic Institutions: Parliaments are dissolved, elections are cancelled or manipulated, and political parties are often banned.

Justification: Coup leaders often justify their actions by claiming to restore order, fight corruption, or protect national interests, often portraying the ousted government as corrupt or incompetent.

Types of Coups: Can be 'veto coups' (military intervenes to block policies), 'breakthrough coups' (military takes power to implement radical change), or 'guardian coups' (military takes power to protect the state from perceived threats).

Consequences: Often lead to authoritarian rule, human rights abuses, political instability, and international condemnation and sanctions.

Illegal Seizure of Power: Coups are inherently extra-constitutional and illegal, often involving the suspension of the existing constitution and legal framework.

Military Involvement: The armed forces or a faction within them are the primary actors, using their control over coercive instruments of the state.

Speed and Surprise: Coups are typically swift and decisive, aiming to neutralize the existing leadership before they can react.

Suspension of Democratic Institutions: Parliaments are dissolved, elections are cancelled or manipulated, and political parties are often banned.

Justification: Coup leaders often justify their actions by claiming to restore order, fight corruption, or protect national interests, often portraying the ousted government as corrupt or incompetent.

Types of Coups: Can be 'veto coups' (military intervenes to block policies), 'breakthrough coups' (military takes power to implement radical change), or 'guardian coups' (military takes power to protect the state from perceived threats).

Consequences: Often lead to authoritarian rule, human rights abuses, political instability, and international condemnation and sanctions.