About Democracy Lab
Democracy Lab is Foreign Policy's home for coverage of transitions to democracy, published in partnership with the Legatum Institute. Democracy Lab also runs Transitions, a blog featuring on-the-ground coverage of transitioning countries.
Editor, Christian Caryl
Assistant Editor, Ilya Lozovsky
Learn more about Democracy Lab here.
The Summit That Can’t Fail
Japan’s prime minister visits Washington at a time when, thanks to Chinese aggressiveness, U.S.-Japan relations are critical.
Why the World Won’t Criticize Chad
Western democracies look the other way as a dictatorial ally in the war on terror holds another election marred by violence and intimidation.
Taliban Issues Cold Response to U.S. Withdrawal Plans
The group has promised to avoid peace talks until “all foreign forces completely withdraw.”
A Hashemite Family Reunion Can’t Hide Jordan’s Woes
Making nice after an alleged coup attempt obscures serious challenges, including water scarcity, a refugee crisis, and unhelpful neighbors.
Taiwan and China Are Locked in Economic Co-Dependence
Both sides have leverage but have been reluctant to use it.
Asian Americans Belong, but Sometimes It’s Hard for Us to Believe It
Oscar-nominated “Minari” is about flowering in the United States—with the aid of our elders.
Sputnik V’s Biggest Legacy May Be Political Turmoil
In Eastern European countries that have accepted the Russian vaccine, destabilization has followed.
The World Should Treat Pandemics Like It Treats Chemical Weapons
Plans for a global pandemic treaty don’t solve the problem of China’s refusal to cooperate.
Biden’s Withdrawal Plan Sets the Clock Ticking in Afghanistan
With troops to depart on Sept. 11, the next five months are critical for any chance of peace.
Biden Is Done with Afghanistan. Is Afghanistan Done With America?
Pulling out all U.S. troops is the administration’s risky plan to pressure Kabul and the Taliban to make peace.
Galleries
The Week in World Photos
Global protests against government-imposed lockdowns, gang violence in El Salvador, and hat tips to medical staff.
The Week in World Photos
A prayerful start to Ramadan, medical workers on the front lines of a pandemic, and the annual Lyrids meteor shower.
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How to Save Global Capitalism From Itself
Decentralizing decision-making can help left-behind regions get back on track.
Britain’s Post-Brexit Identity Crisis
Boris Johnson has contradictory ideas for his country’s future—and no clear paths for getting there.
The Ugly End of Chimerica
The coronavirus pandemic has turned a conscious uncoupling into a messy breakup.
The 3 Most Polarizing Words in India
“Jai Shri Ram” was meant to be a celebration of a Hindu deity. But the phrase is turning into hate speech—and a dog whistle for attacks on Muslims.