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.

× Clear Filters
3,154 Articles
Special Counsel Jack Smith arrives to remarks

How Jack Smith May Charge Trump PAC with Fraudulent Fundraising Within the Bounds of First Amendment

Special Counsel Jack Smith could charge Donald Trump with federal wire fraud for his fundraising off of the Big Lie.
HAWAII - AUGUST 16: A sign is posted on the side of the road on August 16, 2023 in Olowalu, Hawaii.

Broader Lessons About Resilience from Maui’s Fires

As Maui heals from the fires, communities can lay the foundations for social and infrastructure resilience in the face of future disasters.
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit (L) and Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan (R) attend a press conference

An Arab League Interpol-Like Security Network Puts Dissidents and Human Rights Defenders At Risk

Without urgently needed reforms, human rights defenders could be at risk of arrest in 22 countries without even knowing it. No one is safe from the reach of the Arab Interior Ministers…
Rows of military members holding arms

The Myanmar Military Wants the World to Give Up

With ASEAN, East Asian, and G20 Summits coming up in the region, it's not too late for effective measures to compel a positive change.
The US Constitution with a gavel laid on it.

The Character to Lead: Republicans’ Fork in the Road Between Trump and the Constitution’s Eligibility Requirements for President

"As someone who has served as an informal advisor to Republican and Democratic Presidents, it pains me to make this observation."
Biometric eye scan and network

Changes to UK Surveillance Regime May Violate International Law

Proposed changes to UK domestic surveillance laws raise significant human rights concerns.
Ukrainian flags in memory of soldiers who died during the war against Russia are seen on the Maidan Nezalezhnosti

Accountability for Russian Imperialism in the “Global East”

Despite a tendency to analyze global divisions over aggression trials through a “West” versus “Global South” binary, the longer-term stakes of accountability for Ukraine…
Ukrainian servicemen drive a tank on a road

Ukraine Shows that Military Aid Transparency Is Possible

While the administration deserves credit for transparency on aid to Ukraine, the approach casts a stark light on the opacity of broader security cooperation programming and begs…
Military officers at an honor guard ceremony

How Military Leaders Can Navigate a Crisis of Democracy: Lessons from the Reservist Protests in Israel

Leaders must communicate carefully with the public and subordinates, and minimize damage to the military, without adding to societal tension.
The episode title is shown with sound waves in the background.

The Just Security Podcast: The Trump Indictment in Georgia

The indictment charges that the defendants engaged in a sweeping criminal enterprise to overturn the results of the 2020 election in Georgia. 
Protesters hold signs in French opposing ECOWAS.

An International Law Assessment of ECOWAS’ Threat to Use Force in Niger

Under international law, the only possible legal basis for a potential ECOWAS military intervention would be an invitation by Niger extended to ECOWAS to use force on its territory.

What to Expect When You’re Expecting a Trump Trial in Fulton County

Legal experts answer questions about what to expect in the Fulton County, Georgia prosecution of former President Donald Trump and co-defendants.
1-12 of 3,154 items

DON'T MISS A THING. Stay up to date with Just Security curated newsletters: