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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3,165 Articles

On Georgia’s `Russian Law,’ Amendments Are a Trap: The West Should Just Say No

The best way for the US and EU to support citizens opposing the repressive legislation is to refuse to accept its legitimacy in any way.
The Ukrainian serviceman is wearing fatigues and a Balaclava. The room looks bare with rough, chipped walls.

Non-Coercive Interrogation Outlined in New UN Manual Advances Méndez Principles

Practical steps, based on the Mendez Principles, promote ethical, more effective practices to end torture and reduce crime and violence.
John Eastman and Rudy Giuliani speaking on January 6, 2021. Eastman speaks at the podium with a sign “Save America” and Giuliani stands next to him smiling.

Comprehensive Timeline on False Electors Scheme in 2020 Presidential Election

The most comprehensive factual record of former President Donald Trump and his close associates coordination of the false electors scheme.

How the Georgian Government, Once a US Ally, Became an Adversary, Against the Wishes of Its Protesting Citizens

Western leaders will have to respond quickly to deter the ruling Georgian Dream party from further repression against its opposition.

Irrefutable Evidence for Unspeakable Crimes? The Role of the Written Order in Proving and Denying Genocide

An explicit written order has not been -- nor should be -- necessary, whether for international justice or for collective memory.
The US Supreme Court is seen in Washington, D.C. The sky is sunny and blue, and bushes and trees stand outside the building.

What Happens After Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Absolute Immunity: Mapping 3 Scenarios

Mapping different outcomes for the Court's decision on Trump's presidential immunity and the follow-on procedural pathways emerging from those scenarios.
A woman lights candles on the Easter Eve

Amid Russia’s Aggression Towards Ukraine, Can Religious Freedom Endure?

Current shifts in Ukraine due to the war should not impede the realization of citizens' personal rights, irrespective of religious beliefs.
Stormy Daniels arrives at Manhattan Criminal Court

Stormy Daniels’ Darker Testimony About Trump Hints at a Forbidden Side of His Trial

A close look at the lines the judge must draw - and is drawing - to steer clear of testimony and other evidence that could cause undue prejudice to Defendant Trump.
The logos of applications, WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram and facebook belonging to the company Meta are displayed on the screen of an iPhone in front of a Facebook logo

Meta’s Oversight Board in a Historic Election Year: Nine Key Lessons for Industry

Meta's Oversight Board released a policy paper with recommendations for Meta and other social media companies on election content moderation.
Conservative student and supporter of US President Donald Trump, Nick Fuentes, answers question during an interview with Agence France-Presse

Key January 6th Instigator, Nick Fuentes, Reinstatement on Twitter/X: The Implications

Analysis of extremist Nick Fuentes in the run-up and on January 6th, by two authors who served on the House Select Committee.

The Case for Admitting Kosovo to the Council of Europe

Some European democracies, including France and Italy, are imposing conditions, in essence siding with backsliding Serbia.

Keeping Count: Major Adverse Legal Findings Against Donald Trump (Nov. 2020-2024)

Tracking former President Donald Trump's string of major defeats in the legal system after the 2020 election.
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