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

Can the President Dissolve USAID by Executive Order?
Dissolution of USAID or formal transfer of its functions provided by Congress would require legislation - the president may not unilaterally override a statute by executive order.

Federal Employee Rights: What Probationary Employees Need to Know
With so much uncertainty facing federal employees, many on probation want to know what their rights are—especially when it comes to actions against their employment like removing…

Surge of Hate Speech in the Sahel, Including on WhatsApp, Signals Atrocity Risk
The threat is greatest in central Mali, but persecution of the Fulbe (Fulani) across the region seeds fertile ground for ethnic cleansing.

What Just Happened: Trump’s Termination of West Bank Settler Sanctions
The reversal of Biden measures against Israeli settlers leaves few tools in the event an escalation threatens further conflict in the region.

The Real Reason Trump’s Purge of Career DOJ Officials Should Alarm You
Senate Judiciary Committee and Department of Justice alum maps out the threat posed to 2028 election by President Trump's personnel moves inside the Department of Justice.

Throwing Caution to the Wind: Unpacking the U.K. AI Opportunities Action Plan
The U.K. AI Opportunities Action Plan prioritizes a speculative future benefit over safeguarding against foreseeable risks to human rights.

No Claim to Fame: Kash Patel and False or Misleading Statements About the 2016 Russia Investigation
Below is a Table that provides important statements made by Kash Patel about the Justice Department’s investigation of Russia’s interference in the 2016 election – and compares…

Beware the “Deferred Resignation” Offer: A Legally Dubious Proposal for Federal Employees
The deferred resignation proposal sent to federal workers is fraught with practical and legal issues that present uncertainty for employees.

What Just Happened: The Framing of a Migration “Invasion” and the Use of Military Authorities
An expert explainer on the Executive Order on the "Invasion" Executive Order and deployment of troops.

Understanding Trump’s Choice for FBI Leadership in Light of the“Weaponization of the Federal Government” Executive Order
An essay by former acting United States Attorney General.

The Just Security Podcast: What Just Happened Series, Potential U.S. Military Domestic Deployment for Immigration Enforcement
Analyzing legal and policy implications of President Trump using US military resources to support immigration enforcement at the border.

Questions for Senators (and Journalists) to ask Director of National Intelligence Nominee Tulsi Gabbard
We asked leading experts what questions Senate Intelligence Committee members should ask Gabbard in her confirmation hearing.