Democracy and Security Network

The Democracy and Security Network uses rigorous, nonpartisan research to help leaders understand and counter the use of the military to erode democratic checks and balances. Norms against using the military to satisfy domestic political priorities are crumbling worldwide, and political leaders are increasingly relying on general officers and other military leaders based on their perceived party loyalty rather than on merit or the ability to offer independent military advice. This politicization of the military has serious implications for the health and quality of democracy in the United States. But other countries such as Poland, Turkey, and Hungary have also seen leaders politicize the military and undermine readiness, public trust, and accountability. The Democracy and Security Network aims to prevent and/or mitigate the politicization of the military and abuse of power over the military in countries at risk of democratic backsliding. The network does this by collaborating with three critical communities: retired military, legal professionals, and public opinion leaders.