Afghanistan’s Strongman Democracy
Flawed and messy as it was, the vote was still good for democracy.
Cameroon’s Paul Biya Gives a Master Class in Fake Democracy
One of the world’s most experienced autocrats has clinched another seven-year term by bending the rules of the game in his direction in ways both old and new.
The Taliban Just Won a Key Battle for Afghanistan’s Future
The killing of a strongman police chief creates a dangerous power vacuum.
The Sad Decline of Brazil’s Political Establishment
Voters are manifesting their profound unhappiness with the status quo. Jair Bolsonaro is the result.
Russians Don’t Like the Kremlin’s Election Interference Either
In one gubernatorial race, a scandal might be a sign of Putin’s decline.
Sweden’s Far Right Has Won the War of Ideas
An election fought on the Sweden Democrats’ terms leaves the far-right party in control of the country’s agenda.
How a Candidate’s Stabbing Will Further Radicalize Brazil
Right-wing populist Jair Bolsonaro’s wounds will heal, but the country’s politics will never be the same.
Swedes Can’t Go Home Again
In the run-up to Sweden’s election, one word explains why the country used to feel like a family—and why it now feels adrift.
Did Kabila Just Bring Democracy to Congo?
The country’s strongman plans to step down, but the United States must tread carefully.
Zimbabwe’s Opposition Is Under Attack. It Should Seek a Unity Government Before It’s Too Late.
Zanu-PF has proven time and again that it will resort to violence to stay in power. The MDC Alliance must pursue a coalition deal with President Mnangagwa, or more lives will be lost.
Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Zimbabwe Is Old Wine in a New Bottle
The government’s crackdown proves that the ruling party will hold on to power by any means necessary.
Turkey’s Opposition Lost to Erdogan, Then It Lost Its Mind
Since the June election, the country’s various opposition parties have collapsed into chaos, leaving the president without a credible challenger.
All the Prime Minister’s Women
Female members of Imran Khan’s party claim that Pakistan’s new leader has their interests at heart. Does he?
Fake Monitors Endorse Cambodia’s Sham Election
Dubious electoral endorsements are becoming normal for dictators worldwide.
It’s Time for the United States to Push for a Better Zimbabwe
Monday’s election is an opportunity for Washington to come down on the side of accountability and constitutional rule.
No One Has Ever Completed a Term as Pakistan’s PM
A checkered democratic history, from 1947 to the present day.
Get Ready for a More Aggressive Turkey
Erdogan’s new partner in parliament — the ultranationalist MHP — will make Ankara a more belligerent and intransigent ally.
Zimbabwe Needs Genuine Democracy, Not Window Dressing
As the country prepares for the first post-Mugabe elections, the United States and its allies must use all the leverage they have to demand genuine reform.
Erdogan Has Mastered Democracy
For all the deserved criticisms of Turkey's president, the man knows how to win an election.
America’s Uncivil Protests Are Straight Out of Latin America
Donald Trump’s domestic critics are following South America’s successful anti-strongman playbook.
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