Democracy & Rule of Law
Just Security’s expert authors provide analysis on threats and challenges to democracy and the rule of law in the United States and globally. Coverage includes analysis of the separation of powers, good governance, democratic backsliding, authoritarianism, judicial independence, freedom of the press and association, and accountability for rule of law violations.
3,333 Articles
Biden’s Exclusion of Erdoğan from the Democracy Summit May Be a Blessing in Disguise for Turkey
The implicit refutation bolsters an already strengthening opposition without the kind of US interference that tends to generate backlash.
The Absence of “The Donald”
The curious omission of a notorious social media site in the FBI's criminal case files on January 6th.
Bringing Climate and Terrorism Together at the UN Security Council – Proceed with Caution
The open debate creates risks that counterterrorism will come to dominate the climate security and environmental peacebuilding fields.
As It Convenes a Global Democracy Summit, the United States Must Commit To Defending Democracy at Home
Heading into the Summit for Democracy, the United States has yet to pass comprehensive voting rights legislation at home.
What Should Be the Aim of President Biden’s Democracy Summit?
It should create international organizations to build democracy and the rule of law, with the heft of global economic institutions.
Tragic Mistakes: Breaking the Military Culture of Impunity
How framing civilian harm in U.S. military operations -- as a “tragic mistake” -- hides the systemic failure that requires institutional reform.
Might the Turkish Electorate Be Ready to Say Goodbye to Erdoğan After Two Decades in Power?
Polls show a steady decline. But while the opposition stands a chance, it faces challenges, including the risk of election manipulation.
Big-Tobacco-Type Lawsuits from State AGs: A Roadmap for Redressing Facebook’s Harms
Facebook has followed the Big Tobacco model, maximizing profit at expense of the public. It's time for AGs to dust off this playbook too.
When US Security and Democracy Interests Clash
How to break six common and unhelpful patterns in US engagement with security partners that abuse rights or democratic standards.
Unilateral Use of Force in the “National Interest”: Taiwan Doesn’t Meet the Test
Can the President use force to protect Taiwan in the "national interest" without congressional authorization?
US Focus on `Open Balkan’ Economic Project Risks Open Season Instead
In the current security crisis and regional context, such a response may amount to meeting a threat to peace with appeasement and bribery.
Abuse of Interpol for Transnational Repression: Assessing the FY22 NDAA’s Provisions for Prevention
The act needs work, but could set a new standard in limiting Interpol abuse for assassinations, abductions, financial blacklisting and more.