Defection refers to the act of abandoning one group, cause, or allegiance in favor of another. This can occur in various contexts, such as politics, where an individual may leave a political party to join a rival one, or in sports, where an athlete might switch teams. Defection often involves a significant change in loyalty and can have various motivations, including personal beliefs, dissatisfaction, or better opportunities. In international relations, defection can also describe a situation where a country or its representatives break away from an alliance or treaty. This can lead to shifts in power dynamics and influence, affecting relationships between nations. The consequences of defection can be complex, impacting both the defecting party and those left behind.