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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3,156 Articles

January 6th Report Summarizes Extremist Threat – But Leaves Key Gaps

"The absence of recommendations concerning violent extremism and law enforcement represent two of the most glaring omissions in the report."
A collage of images featuring scenes from this year's key developments

2023 Forward: Democracy, Russia-Ukraine War, Tech Policy, Climate Change

"In the final few days of 2022, we turn again to an expression of thanks – to our amazing colleagues who help produce Just Security, to our authors who fill the pages with their…
US Capitol Building against a sunset

Congress Mandates Sweeping Transparency Reforms for International Agreements

"While there are still important gaps in the oversight regime, this legislative enactment represents the most significant transparency reform for international agreements in a…
Pro-Trump flags are waved in front of the U.S. Capitol

Major Highlights of the January 6th Report

Among the investigation's closest observers, Goodman and Hendrix analyze key new revelations in the House Select Committee's final report.

Extend US Leadership on Ukraine to Post-War Reconstruction Too

G7 donors are planning now for Ukraine’s recovery. Experts explain why that should include appointing an American to lead coordination.

The Just Security Podcast: The Conclusion of the January 6th Committee

After nearly a year and a half of hearings and interviews the January 6th Committee is wrapping up its work. It held its final hearing on Monday, will issue its final report Thursday,…
Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) speaks at a news conference on government spending at the U.S. Capitol Building on December 07, 2022

The FY 2023 NDAA Falls Short on Security Assistance Oversight

The NDAA did little to address the civilian harm, corruption, and weapons diversion linked to U.S. security assistance and cooperation.

How Jan. 6th Committee’s Revelations of Interference in Their Investigation Can Enable the Special Counsel

The kind of new evidence that can aid Special Counsel Jack Smith's investigations of January 6th and Mar-a-Lago.
TOPSHOT - An art mural of slain US-Palestinian correspondent Shireen Abu Akleh is pictured at a section of Israel's separation fence between Jerusalem and the city of Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank on December 6, 2022. - The United States said today it opposed Al Jazeera taking the killing of Palestinian-American reporter Shireen Abu Akleh to the International Criminal Court, renewing objections to investigations involving Israel. Al Jazeera submitted the case of slain journalist Shireen Abu Akleh to the International Criminal Court, saying the veteran reporter was deliberately killed by Israeli forces. (Photo by AHMAD GHARABLI / AFP) (Photo by AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP via Getty Images)

Shireen Abu Akleh’s Killing Raises Questions about U.S. Security Assistance to Israel

U.S. officials should ensure the Leahy laws are applied consistently to all countries, including Israel.
U.S. Soldiers of the 663rd Ordnance Company, 242nd Ordnance Battalion, drive military vehicles to the explosives range at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Nov. 29, 2019. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Soldiers utilize these ranges to provide controlled disposal of explosive Ordnance. The Coalition is in Iraq by invitation of, and operates in close coordination with, the Government of Iraq. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Derek Mustard)

Missed Opportunities and Minor Progress: The FY 2023 National Defense Bill and War Powers

One big disappointing omission and otherwise a mixed bag from the standpoint of winding down the United States’ forever wars -- despite leaders of both parties having proclaimed…

The U.N. Fact-Finding Mission: An Accountability Turn for Iran?

The creation of the first U.N. fact-finding mission on Iran signals that the world will not stand silent in the face of egregious human rights abuses.

As Haiti’s Last 10 Lawmakers’ Terms Expire, Political Transition Must Take Priority Over Military Intervention

A human rights defender urges the US to press the Prime Minister to reach an agreement to proceed with a civil society transition plan.
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