A recession is an economic downturn characterized by a decline in economic activity, such as GDP growth rate and employment levels. It typically occurs when there is a decrease in consumer spending, business investments, and government expenditures. A recession can be caused by various factors including high inflation rates, interest rate hikes, decreased consumer confidence, or global economic shocks such as the 2008 financial crisis. During a recession, governments may implement policies to stimulate economic growth and alleviate the impact on businesses and households.