Articles | Page 105 | Journal of Democracy

January 2026, Volume 37, Issue 1

How Moldova Stands Up to Putin

Moldova is poor, strategically located, and under intense pressure from Russia. But one of Europe’s smallest players has come up with a surprisingly effective recipe for holding Russian dominance at bay.

January 2026, Volume 37, Issue 1

Crime, Crackdowns, and Democracy in Ecuador

Ecuador was already besieged by crime and violence. Now it faces a populist president whose “strong hand” policies show little success. They may do even more damage to the country’s democracy.

January 2026, Volume 37, Issue 1

The Empty Quest for Muslim Democracy

Two decades ago, there was a wave of optimism about the rise of “Muslim democracy,” but these hopes have not been realized. What are the real barriers to progress?

January 2026, Volume 37, Issue 1

The Post-Traumatic Sovereignty Trap

Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan are embattled democracies shaped by historic traumas and facing dire threats from powers that deny their right to exist. Can democracy endure in such conditions?

January 2026, Volume 37, Issue 1

How Authoritarians Exploit Gender

Whether preying on people’s anxieties or playing the part of the progressive liberal, autocrats and would-be authoritarians see “gender” as a tool that can be adapted to whatever use best serves their interests.

January 2026, Volume 37, Issue 1

What Institutions Truly Subvert Democracy?

Michael Meyer-Resende

Authoritarians often abuse electoral systems and institutional power to thwart majority will. But the basic principles of democracy—political participation, fundamental rights, and the rule of law—can take shape in more than one way.