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.
3,398 Articles
Don’t Fire the (Senate) Umpire
The Senate Parliamentarian's ruling on immigration reform should not be disregarded because it would undermine the rule of law.
Sanctions and Corruption: Assessing Risk to Improve Design
Increased corruption is a common unintended consequences of sanctions. Alongside considering humanitarian consequences, the U.S. should account for corruption risks, and ways to…
Biden’s `Initiative for Democratic Renewal’ — Analysis from Diplomats, Top Experts
The $424.4 million plan focuses on media, corruption, reformers, technology, and political processes like elections.
Reestablishing Florida’s State Guard Won’t Give DeSantis a Private Army Free of Federal Control
While Florida Gov. DeSantis' proposal is worrisome as a political matter, it is unlikely to pose the kind of threat his critics fear.
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.