Issues

Democracy is in decline around the world. Governments elected to power with populist agendas are increasingly adopting authoritarian tactics. There are striking similarities in the methods deployed to subvert democracy. These methods typically include compromising electoral integrity, undermining judicial independence, and quashing free expression and dissent. The Stanford Law School Rule of Law Impact Lab studies and uses legal tools to counter core threats to democracy and to promote democratic renewal worldwide.

Electoral Integrity

Free and fair elections are a necessary condition for democracy. In many parts of the world, however, this basic condition is not met. Voter suppression tactics prevail, electoral districts are gerrymandered to favor particular political parties, electoral management bodies and vote counts are manipulated, and valid election results are flouted. The Stanford Law School Rule of Law Impact Lab works with local organizations around the world to preserve free and fair elections and protect the right to vote.

Judicial Independence

Independent judges are crucial for protecting democracy in the face of executive or legislative overreach. In many countries, however, judicial selection mechanisms are manipulated to pack the courts, and judges face retaliation for demonstrating independence. The Stanford Law School Rule of Law Impact Lab works with non-partisan local organizations around the world to preserve judicial independence.

Freedom of Expression

Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy.  In many countries, however, journalists and independent media outlets are persecuted for reporting the truth, peaceful protests are banned, the internet is arbitrarily shut down, and laws, rules, and regulations (including those relating to online content) are weaponized to suppress and chill free expression. The Stanford Law School Rule of Law Impact Lab works with local organizations around the world to preserve the right to free expression.