To defect to another country means to leave one's own country and give up allegiance to it, often illegally and usually because of disagreement with the government or to seek freedom or safety elsewhere. This act of defection is typically viewed by the original country as betrayal or treason, especially when done to an opposing or rival country. People defect to participate in political opposition, escape repression, or find better opportunities, and the act often involves significant risks and consequences from the original country. Defectors are sometimes government officials, military personnel, or other individuals who switch loyalty to another state, commonly during political conflicts or authoritarian rule.
Key Points About Defection
- It usually involves leaving a country illegally and against that country's laws.
- Defectors are seen as traitors by their original country.
- It often happens in contexts of political disagreement, repression, or as a desire for freedom.
- Famous examples include North Koreans defecting to South Korea or other countries.
- Defection can apply broadly to abandoning any allegiance, such as in politics, sports, or ideology.
Thus, defecting to another country is not merely migrating or changing citizenship; it is a political and often dangerous act of switching loyalty from one country or cause to another under contested circumstances.
