Congress
Just Security’s expert authors offer analysis of U.S. Congress’ role in national security, foreign affairs, the rule of law, and rights. Coverage includes analysis and informational resources related to the legislative process, oversight and investigations of the executive branch, and major debates on the separation of powers and Congress’ constitutional role.
2,449 Articles

Congressional Action on Civilian Harm Resulting from U.S. Military Operations: Part I
Congress has introduced two landmark bills aimed at addressing systemic problems with civilian harm.

Congressional Action on Civilian Harm Resulting from U.S. Military Operations: Part II
Congress has introduced two landmark bills aimed at addressing systemic problems with civilian harm.

As Congress Debates Social Media Harms, Here’s How to Make Online Consent Meaningful
"Reform the law so that companies must provide more meaningful information in their privacy notices and terms of service."

What Kind of Guilty Mind is Needed for the Criminal Contempt of Congress Statute?
An expert backgrounder on the Steve Bannon criminal case and the law of what prosecutors need to prove to get a conviction for contempt of Congress.

Strengthening Democracy With the Global Fragility Act: Getting Political Transformation Right
US planning teams are preparing for a focus on Haiti, Libya, Mozambique, Papua New Guinea, and the Littoral West Africa region.

DoD Can’t Move Forward on Civilian Casualties Without Looking Back
"Neglecting past cases would be a grave mistake that could damage the credibility of an otherwise promising process."

Why Proposals for U.S. to Liquidate and Use Russian Central Bank Assets Are Legally Unavailable
The proposed action against Russia's Central Bank is most likely available under International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

How International Justice Can Succeed in Ukraine and Beyond
A combination of innovative and long-overdue improvements could help ensure accountability for atrocities in this war and in so many others.

The Need for Urgency in Closing the War Crimes Act’s Loopholes
Given constitutional constraints on retroactive changes to criminal laws, every day Congress fails to act is another day it affords war criminals impunity.

Top Cover: Congressional Republicans Pave Way for US Policy Shift on Int’l Criminal Court
We cataloged every Congressional Republican statement on the International Criminal Court exercising jurisdiction over Russian nationals committing war crimes in Ukraine.

Expanding the U.S. War Crimes Act: Lessons from the Administration’s Proposals in 1996
Michael Matheson reflects on his testimony on behalf of the administration in 1996 proposing the reforms Congress is contemplating today.

With West Africa and Priority Countries Set, Potentially Game-Changing Global Fragility Act Still Faces Hurdles
Congress and the Biden administration still must move on funding and authorities to jump start the already delayed 10-year program.