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.
3,366 Articles
If the U.S. Wants Durable Peace, It Must Protect the Institutions That Build It
A year ago, the Trump administration seized the U.S. Institute of Peace and began to dismantle it, gutting a key capability to reduce and prevent violent conflict.
The Shield of the Americas Is the Trump Corollary’s Military Edge
The Shield of the Americas operationalizes the 2025 National Security Strategy, creating serious consequences for sovereignty, civil-military relations, and democratic governance.
Did the United States Just Bomb Ecuador?
The U.S. military continues maritime strikes on alleged drug smugglers and may now be hitting targets on land. Brian Finucane analyzes Trump’s latest War Powers report.
Epstein and His Co-Conspirators’ New York Crimes: What NY Officials Can Now Do
Four options that New York's Governor, Attorney General, legislature, and city officials can take to pursue accountability and transparency for Jeffrey Epstein's crimes.
Operation Epic Fury: Reports of the Death of International Law are Greatly Exaggerated
"I am sure some restrictionists will critique my analysis by claiming it is not grounded in orthodox interpretations of international law."
A Year Later – What Did the Pause on FCPA Enforcement Do?
A year after pausing FCPA enforcement, the U.S. has trimmed cases, cut prosecutors, and reversed key sanctions, signaling a retreat from anti-corruption.
Technology and the ICRC’s GC IV 2025 Commentary
Surveys how the 2025 ICRC GC IV Commentary integrates technology into its analysis of specific rules, while raising concerns about its treatment of data as property.
Iran, War Powers, and the Power of the Purse: Leverage or Legalization
With America’s war in Iran costing around $2 billion per day, Congress will soon face a choice: use its leverage to force an exit, or continue to fund it.
Human Rights at Risk in the Sprint Toward AI Sovereignty
Policymakers and the private sector should work with civil society to ensure that the pursuit of “sovereign AI” does not undermine fundamental rights.
The Deeper Problem with ICE’s Arrest Warrants
DHS regulations do not ensure that ICE arrest warrants are supported by reliable probable cause findings. That failing poses significant Fourth Amendment risks.
For Lasting Stability, Venezuela Needs a Peace Process
After the U.S. capture of Maduro, rigorous national dialogue and power-sharing could help heal internal fractures, rebuild institutions, and prepare for elections.
Top Questions the Trump Administration Needs to Answer on War with Iran
What Congress, journalists, and the public should ask the Trump administration about its war in Iran.