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.
3,181 Articles
To the 2020 Candidates: As President, Would You Prevent Another Genocide?
Two types of questions — asking about a specific country context or a broad use-of-force policy — have guided debates on the national stage about the U.S. role in atrocity…
Yes, Trump Could Be Indicted If He Leaves Office in 2021, But Is That Likely?
In a world where indicting a sitting president is not possible and prosecuting him after he leaves office raises practical and prudential concerns, impeachment could very well…
The Trump Impeachment Process Began on March 4
On March 4, 2019, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler announced an investigation into “the alleged obstruction of justice, public corruption, and other abuses of…
To Avoid Future “El Pasos” and “Daytons,” It’s Time to Invest in Prevention
Because darkness is sure to strike again, the nation needs political leaders who can take us all towards viable and comprehensive solutions. Violent extremism requires additional,…
Norms Watch: Damage to Democracy and Rule of Law in July 2019
Editor’s Note: Welcome to the latest installment of Norms Watch, our series tracking both the flouting of democratic norms by the Trump administration and the erosion of those…
Trump’s Encouraging QAnon May Result in Violence—Just ask the FBI
"A few hours after the FBI assessment leaked, the President held a campaign rally in Cincinnati, where the pre-rally speaker Brandon Straka called out the phrase, 'Where we go…
Border Agents’ Secret Facebook Group Highlights Social Media Vetting Risks for Immigrants
Government social media monitoring is ripe for abuse in any context, but the implications of Customs and Border Protection's environment of racism and lack of oversight demand…
How Secrecy Undermines Mueller and the Defense of Democracy
Official secrecy can diminish democratic discourse, limit debate, and blind the Congress and the public to the nature of the most imminent threats to democracy, all in the name…
Revisiting General Counsel Ney’s Speech in Light of New Pentagon Leadership
Former Department of Defense official (OSD) Luke Hartig critiques General Counsel Paul Ney's recent speech on the framework governing US military operations.
Congress Tackles the “100-Mile” Border Zone for Federal Checkpoints
A long-festering issue affecting the entire U.S. border on the north, south, east, and west is finally getting congressional attention: the so-called “100-mile border zone”…
Airbnb’s Listings in Disputed Territories: A Tortured Compromise
Under the terms of two recent court settlements, Airbnb will continue to offer rentals in Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories. That reversal raises potentially…
“Virtual Iowa Caucuses” Demand Cybersecurity Attention: 2020 Election Security Can’t Wait Till 2020
The past week featured stark reminders of the importance of election security as the 2020 presidential election swiftly approaches. First, former Special Counsel Robert Mueller…