Democratic Backsliding & Solutions

The Feb. 1 coup opened the latest front in a historic battle for democracy and peace. Today, we launch a series on the coup, its context, and what the future may hold for Myanmar.

To reinforce global democracy and compete with rivals, the US must prevent conflict and stabilize fragile states. The issues are intertwined.

The Biden administration needs to ensure that solutions it offers for the continent's challenges are Africa-led, inclusive, multilateral, and multifaceted.

To be a credible proponent of peace, the US must shed destabilizing security ties and unneeded military capabilities, and invest in conflict prevention.

The Biden administration should draw on lessons from previous successes in Central America, and Congress must provide sufficient funding.

Responding to the coup in Myanmar calls for ambitious out-of-the-box thinking, and an understanding that such pressure is unlikely to come from the United Nations Security Council.

Since taking power, Myanmar's military has limited access to social media, and at times cut internet service overall. What can tech companies do to resist?

Attempts to reduce risks of mass atrocities will be stronger if they are integrated with policy efforts to prevent conflict, address fragility, and counter extremism.

Will the military, having violated democratic norms, work with a civilian-led government to bring the country back to rule of law and peaceful development?

Leading with a heavy military response, particularly when government partners are repressive, ultimately makes things worse. The need for a new approach is clear. It should focus…

What are the implications of accepting or inviting military intervention in domestic politics in Mali and beyond?

The US too often views its work on fragile or failed states as "fixing" various sectors, without enough focus on the political dynamics underneath.