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.

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3,181 Articles
WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 15: The front of the U.S. Agency of International Development (USAID) headquarters building is seen on September 15, 2014, in Washington, DC. (Photo by J. David Ake/Getty Images)

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.  
Stacks of case files in white boxes,

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…
The photo shows the herder in the cener of the frame, facing the camera and holding a stick behind him over his shoulders. He's standing in an arid environment, with a few scraggly trees and mostly emaciated livestock in the background.

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.
The photo shows an older woman in a head scarf at the right of the photo in the foreground, against the backdrop of a wrecked interior of a home.

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 Department of Justice

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.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a speech

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…
Deferred Resignation email from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management

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.
A US Army soldier monitors the US-Mexico border in Eagle Pass, Texas

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.
The episode title appears with sound waves behind it.

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.
Tulsi Gabbard walks behind two men in suits down a hallway. She is smiling.

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.
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