Geoffrey Swenson
Promoters of the rule of law stress the importance of non-state justice for security, stability, and access to justice in the Global South. But as Geoffrey Swenson highlights, actual foreign policy tells a different story. Risk aversion – rather than results – drives foreign policy. Successful rule of law promotion ultimately demands greater risk Read more
Payton Gannon
It is now two years since the fall of Roe v. Wade. How has this affected healthcare for pregnant Americans? Payton Gannon and Danielle Pullan explain the most recent Supreme Court cases, and contextualise them within the broader global discussion on conscientious objection and religion in healthcare Read more
Max Steuer
The Slovak Constitutional Court has – temporarily, at least – succeeded in halting policies driving the country towards illiberalism. Max Steuer argues that this decision, and its political context, resemble developments in late-1990s Slovakia. The Court showed resilience, but it might not suffice if Slovakia’s illiberals learn from the experience Read more
Kaja Kaźmierska
Kaja Kaźmierska analyses a new law passed recently in Poland which violates the Constitution multiple times on the pretext of investigating Russian influence over Polish politics. Opposition parties have dubbed this law the 'Lex Tusk', arguing that its purpose is predominantly to prevent a Tusk victory in the forthcoming elections Read more
Gabriela Patricia García García
Human rights organisations in Turkey face a predicament. In using the law to confront human rights violations by the government, they then experience those violations themselves. Legal mobilisation against democratic backsliding has its limits, argues Gabriela García García Read more
Steffen Hurka
Why are laws often so hard to understand? Steffen Hurka argues that the complexity of laws increases when political conflict becomes more intense and when decision-making becomes more inclusive. Democracies aim for compromise and the balancing of interests, and complex laws are the inevitable consequence Read more
Danielle Pullan
SCOTUS recently overturned the federal right to abortion, leaving many open questions about the future of abortion policy, both in the US and around the globe. Danielle Pullan compares the new post-Roe abortion policy landscape in the US to the current state of abortion governance in Europe, highlighting its similarity to the EU’s approach Read more
Daniel Naurin
It is widely argued that courts should make public their dissenting opinions in order to right wrongs and increase transparency. Yet, writes Daniel Naurin, courts will have a harder time securing public compliance with their decisions if they fail to speak with one voice Read more
The Loop
Cutting-edge analysis showcasing the work of the political science discipline at its best.
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.Ok