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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3,166 Articles
The dome of the U.S. Capitol Building against a darkening blue-grey sky.

How Long Will Trump’s DC Immunity Appeal Take? Analyzing the Alternative Timelines

An overview of the potential procedural pathways for former President Trump's appeal of his federal prosecution for election interference.

Mandate Matters: How the DC Circuit Could Limit Trump’s Run-Out-the-Clock Strategy

The DC Circuit has every reason to put the burden on former President Trump by issuing a quick mandate.
Justice Department Building Pennsylvania Avenue Washington DC with the American Flag in the front.

How the KKK Produced the Department of Justice

The Department of Justice was founded specifically to counter domestic terrorism. A new law to better prosecute today’s domestic terrorists and more effectively deter people…
Insurgents inside the Capitol building during the January 6 attack. One holds a phone in front of his face, and a poster is erected over a statue. The poster reads, “America First Never give up never surrender!!!”

Introduction to Expert Statements on Role of Extremism in Social and News Media, submitted to January 6th House Select Committee

Twenty statements from leading experts in law, academia, and other research organizations

Old Constitutional Provisions and Presidential Selection: The folly of exhuming Section 3 of the 14th Amendment

A critical analysis of the use of the 14th Amendment to bar candidates, including former President Trump, from running for office, without congressional implementing legislation.…

A Leader is Brought to Justice 41 Years Later in Suriname

A court decision confirmed the conviction of ex-President and previous junta leader Desi Bouterse for the 1982 murders of 15 political prisoners.

It’s Not Just Technology: What it Means to be a Global Leader in AI

Establishing global leadership in AI requires technological innovation, domestic implementation, effective regulation, and moral legitimacy.
The front of the White House is seen through a fence.

Congress Can Curb Abuse of the Presidential Pardon Power

Congress can impose consequences for presidents abusing the pardon power by increasing oversight and imposing transparency requirements.
US Capitol building at sunset with moon

Nine Stories That Deserved More Attention in 2023 – and That May Shape 2024

What stories or topics merited more attention in 2023, with a particular eye toward what might inform law and policy conversations in 2024?

The US Can — and Must — Counter Russian Influence Undermining Kyrgyzstan’s Democratic Progress

The latest sign of backsliding is a draft "foreign agents" law modeled after one that gutted civil society in Russia.
Shot of the Justice Department building at night

The Office of Legal Counsel Discloses List of Classified Opinions in Important Step for Transparency

The disclosure of the titles means that journalists, researchers, and others can now request the Office of Legal Counsel opinions themselves, opening important new avenues for…
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