The Austrian government's openly discriminatory policies against migrants have been invalidated by the Constitutional Court and challenged by the European Commission. But, argues Irene Landini, that has not ended ‘welfare chauvinism’ and social exclusion, either in Austria or elsewhere in Europe
To understand today’s autocratic regimes, we should look at how they exploit social media, argues Bakhyzhan Kurmanov. In Kazakhstan, a referendum in the name of ‘open government’ is effectively a sham. What's more, it is a cover for autocratic practices of silencing dissent
Lobbying regulation is an area where political scientists can help strengthen democracy. We usually analyse the effects of existing regulations, and see why, where, and how they are implemented. But Alberto Bitonti argues we can do much more, helping regulators fix loopholes and understand what they really should aim for
In Kazakhstan’s recent presidential elections, incumbent President Tokayev won an overwhelming majority, further consolidating his rule. Tokayev preaches democratisation. Yet, as Bakhytzhan Kurmanov argues, the elections were hardly democratic, and the reforms he proposes may mask an intent to strengthen his own position rather than empower Kazakh citizens
On 24 December 2025, Algeria passed a law recognising French colonisation as a state crime, and calling for restitution and reparations. The law is primarily domestic and symbolic. But Morgiane Noel argues that it signals a significant postcolonial shift that could influence African politics, Europe–Africa relations, and discussions of historical justice in international law
Donald Trump has recently suggested negotiators have made 'tremendous progress' on a Russia-Ukraine peace agreement. A fair and durable settlement, however, remains elusive. According to Dennis Shen, an outcome that is overly accommodating of Russia’s war aims would only deepen present global geopolitical tensions and compound fiscal and economic challenges
A pioneering new deliberative democracy project invites university students, faculty and administrative staff to develop transformative measures to future-proof their institution against social and environmental challenges. Reintroducing deliberation into education and beyond, argues Émilie Frenkiel, could bridge the representative disconnect between citizens and institutions
The Trump administration is advancing an illiberal Atlanticism that reimagines the West in manners similar to how Putin imagines Eurasia. Sibei Sun dissects the uncanny parallels between the two geopolitical doctrines and what it all means for future transatlantic relations
The UK’s car- and London-centric transport policy undermines accessibility. It is pushing millions into effective poverty and entrenching transport emissions through forced car ownership. Will Edmonds argues that prioritising public transport, and equalising accessibility, would break Britain's reliance on the car
Information warfare has moved to the centre of the UK’s security agenda, says Yuliia Turchenko. Media monitoring reveals how digital manipulation and foreign interference now shape public understanding of risk. Here, the author weighs up the threat, and suggests how the UK should respond
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
