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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3,435 Articles
The leader of Civic Coalition (KO), Donald Tusk addresses voters and lawmakers from the podium in the parliament after receiving a majority of the chamber's votes to be the next prime minister during a parliamentary session on Dec. 11, 2023 in Warsaw, Poland. His coalition of opposition parties won a majority in October's general election, ending eight years of rule by the Law and Justice (PiS) party. (Photo by Omar Marques/Getty Images)

Poland’s New Government Will Face Hurdles to Restore Rule of Law and Judicial Independence

In addition to reversing the previous ruling party's damage, changes should reinforce the longevity of vital institutions going forward.

Michigan False Electors Prosecution Faces A Court Test

Assessment of ongoing criminal case against Michigan false electors in 2020 presidential election, based on all the publicly available evidence and state law.

When Authoritarians Undermine Multilateral Institutions: The OSCE at 50

Russia’s actions illustrate the issue of what to do when founding policies are used to prevent organizations from pursuing fundamental values.
Abstract image of human eye with retinal circuit on a black background.

The GSRA Would Undermine the Utility of FISA Section 702

The Government Surveillance Reform Act proposes that Section 702 be renewed, but it also mandates a host of changes that impair the agility of Section 702 as an intelligence tool.
Special Counsel Jack Smith arrives to remarks on a recently unsealed indictment including four felony counts against former U.S. President Donald Trump

How DOJ’s New Reveal – Trump Agent’s Effort to Cause Violence to Stop Vote Count – Matches Trump Election Lie About Detroit

Special Counsel Jack Smith's new court filing reveals more evidence about how Trump's lies caused the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol.
A golden statue folding the scales of justice appears in front of a U.S. flag.

Trump’s Lawyers Face Sanctions, Discipline, and Indictment – How Should the Legal Profession Respond?

Evidence of so many lawyers engaging in so much purported misconduct amounts to a flashing red light at the intersection of law and politics.
A line of black rifles stand against a wall.

Resistance and Justice in Myanmar Requires Addressing Extrajudicial Killings by Armed Opposition Groups

Myanmar's resistance must find ways to provide justice for those harmed and guarantee due process for those suspected of violations.

The Just Security Podcast: Toward a Goldilocks Deal on 702 Surveillance Reform

The Reiss Center on Law and Security at NYU Law and Just Security co-hosted an expert discussion on FISA Section 702 surveillance reform.

10 Questions Prosecutors Should Ask Ken Chesebro

Analysis of what prosecutors in Nevada, Arizona and elsewhere can ask Kenneth Chesebro in investigations of 2020 false electors effort.
A woman holds her hand to her mouth. A second woman sits over her shoulder.

America’s Election Officials Fight Disinformation and Death Threats Ahead of 2024

Disinformation stemming from the 2020 vote still leads to overwhelming records requests, retirements, and threats towards election officials.
Senator Durbin appears in front of a seal of the United States Senate.

Leonard Leo and Harlan Crow Would Be Wise to Comply with Their Senate Subpoenas

While Crow may feel bullied, and Leo may feel that the inquiry is ill-intentioned, as a matter of law the two are obliged to comply anyway.
Women walk past a sign of the COP28 ahead of the United Nations climate summit

Tracking COP28: Notable Moments and Key Themes

As COP28 begins, our tracker provides expert analysis, updates on conference debates, and the latest climate coverage.
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