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.
3,366 Articles

The Just Security Podcast: A Conversation with Avril Haines the Director of National Intelligence of the United States
On Feb. 29, 2024, Just Security welcomed the Director of National Intelligence, Avril Haines, to NYU School of Law for remarks and a fireside chat in celebration of Just Security’s…

Disclosing Secrets: Deterrence, Diplomacy, and Debate – Reflections on Remarks by DNI Avril Haines
Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines spoke on strategic declassification and transparency in intelligence work at an event commemorating Just Security’s 10th anniversary.…

Amid Courts’ Role in US Democracy Struggle, Look to Lessons from Abroad
Countries that maintained their democracies have had courts that rose to the occasion to safeguard a country’s constitution or rule of law.

Enhancing Nuclear Transparency in Iran Could Help Prevent a Wider War
Pursuing transparency measures now in Iran would help prevent the country's nuclear program from triggering a wider war.

Rethinking Risk: Reducing Harm to Nonprofits in the Push to Counter Terrorism Financing
After years of detrimental side effects from the Financial Action Task Force's power, a course correction is overdue.

What Should Courts Do If a Future President Invokes the Alien Enemies Act to Deport Immigrants?
Congress can repeal the Alien Enemies Act to safeguard against Trump's threat to conduct mass deportations without hearings.

Canada’s Special Economic Measures Act Under International Law
Alternatives to SEMA would ensure that Canada abides by international law in pushing back against Russia's violation of the U.N. Charter

Manhattan DA Requests ‘Narrowly Tailored’ Gag Order on Trump Before March Trial
Manhattan DA Bragg asked a judge to impose a “narrowly tailored” gag order on Trump in his first criminal case expected to go to trial.

Book Excerpt: “Attack from Within: How Disinformation is Sabotaging America” by Barbara McQuade
Excerpted from "Attack from Within: How Disinformation is Sabotaging America" by Barbara McQuade, published by Seven Stories Press.

UN Fact-Finding Mission Should Recognize Gender Persecution in Iran
The 55th Session of the U.N. Human Rights Council should also include renewing the mandate of the fact-finding mission.

National Security at the United Nations This Week (Feb. 19-Feb. 23)
Our weekly series on developments at the United Nations at the intersection of national security, human rights, and the rule of law.

What to Expect Following Trump’s Civil Fraud Judgment: A Primer on the Appeals Process and More
Answering questions about appellate procedures and how former President Trump may try to stop or limit $450m civil fraud judgment.