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.
3,363 Articles

The Noxious Nexus of Money and Politics Takes Another Turn in Central and Southeastern Europe
A Forbes-listed billionaire’s China-fueled deals illustrate the potential security threats of media and telecom capture by authoritarians.

Pluses and Minuses of Pelosi’s Draft Jan. 6 Commission Proposal
"The draft text has some subtle virtues that are being missed by many commentators, and also some weaknesses."

Safeguarding Democracy Among Eastern Europe’s Three Seas
With EU and US help, the Three Seas Initiative can resist Russia's and China's designs on the region by promoting transparency, prosperity, and development.

Chart: Comparing Pelosi’s Draft Legislation on Jan. 6 Commission to Other Bills and Prior Commissions
On Monday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi publicly released a discussion draft of legislation to establish a “9/11-type Commission” to investigate the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol attack.…

In India, US Defense Secretary Austin Must Not Overlook Its Democratic Decline
The Indian government’s pattern of repressive actions could undermine its value as a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region.

When War Criminals Run the Government: Not Too Late for the International Community to Vet Sri Lankan Officials
Developing such a list of individuals would signal to survivors some measure of recognition of the atrocities they have suffered.

Is the US Doubling Down on Division in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
A dangerously misguided policy embracing a nefarious election gambit threatens Joe Biden's otherwise proud legacy dating to the 1990s war.

The Global Fragility Act Could Give US Assistance and Diplomacy a New Start for Countries in Conflict
The Biden administration should draw on lessons from previous successes in Central America, and Congress must provide sufficient funding.

In Haiti’s Political Crisis, US Should Support Democracy and Human Rights
Activists say the Biden administration should reverse its support of President Moïse's illegal, abusive rule and consult civil society on a way ahead.

“Red Lines” in Beirut Blast Investigation: How Exactly Lebanese Politicians Escape Accountability
The effort to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for last summer's deadly explosion in Beirut reveals the convoluted system of impunity constructed by the Lebanese…

Lessons from the Impeachment Trials of President Donald J. Trump
For the second time, the Senate failed to convict Donald Trump at the end of an impeachment trial, but was the trial a failure? For many, Trump’s second acquittal was further…

Biden’s Drone Policy Review: Recommendations for a Reset
"The administration should see this review as an opportunity take some first critical steps toward ending the forever wars."