Defending Democratic Institutions

Countering Adversary Attacks on Fundamental Institutions of Democracy

The Defending Democratic Institutions (DDI) project was established to better understand, and develop recommendations to counter foreign efforts to disrupt democracy and exacerbate public distrust of democratic institutions via cyber and information operations. A key focus of this initiative is on information operations undermining Americans’ trust in the justice system, to include judges, prosecutors, and the rule of law. In addition, this initiative focuses on building national resilience through the reinvigoration of civics education, at all ages, as a national security imperative.

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Suzanne Spaulding

Suzanne Spaulding

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Photo: CSIS DEFENDING DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS PROJECT/CREATED USING GEMINI

Photo: CSIS DEFENDING DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS PROJECT/CREATED USING GEMINI

Building Civics Concepts into STEM and the Tech Sector

As technology continues to shape society, it’s essential for tech leaders to recognize their role in strengthening democracy. This report highlights the urgent need to integrate civic knowledge and responsibility into STEM education and careers. 

Report by Suzanne Spaulding and Paula Reynal — November 13, 2024

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Understanding Insurrection and Sedition

CSIS security experts define acts of sedition and insurrection and evaluate the seriousness of both charges.

Critical Questions by Suzanne Spaulding, Devi Nair, and Joseph Federici — January 29, 2021

Restore Trust in National Security Institutions

Trust in U.S. democratic institutions has been declining for some time. To start rebuilding and sustaining public confidence in democracy and in U.S. national security institutions, civic education must be elevated as a national security imperative.

Critical Questions by Suzanne Spaulding and Devi Nair — January 22, 2021

Buttressing Institutional Integrity in an Election Year

How can the laws, policies, processes, historical precedents, and institutional norms guiding federal force roles be tested during a presidential election and transition?

Brief by Devi Nair, Suzanne Spaulding, and Melissa Dalton — October 27, 2020