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This project seeks to inform debate about UK democracy and constitutionalÌý³¦³ó²¹²Ô²µ±ð, and to promote the importance ofÌý³¾²¹¾±²Ô³Ù²¹¾±²Ô¾±²Ô²µÌýconstitutional and democratic standards.ÌýÌý

It usesÌýhigh-quality analysisÌýto inform policymakers and the public about the health of the UK’s constitutional and democratic system, assessing both long-term trends and specific political developments or reform proposals as they arise.ÌýÌý

The project focuses on the UK, butÌýdraws on international evidence. It is particularly informed by academic work on the global phenomenon of ‘democratic backsliding’.ÌýThis growing body of analysis explores how the vital ingredients for healthy democracies to function –Ìýeffective checks and balances, strongÌýdemocratic institutions, and respect for norms – are increasingly being undermined within many well-established democracies.Ìý

The project champions high constitutional and democratic standards, andÌýmayÌýthereforeÌýsound appropriate warnings where these are threatened. Like all of the Constitution Unit’s work, however,Ìýit is politically neutral. The researchers will work closely with practitioners from across the political spectrum,ÌýandÌýwith other independent groups and individual experts on a wide range of constitutionalÌýtopics.

Briefings

Our briefing series is designed to inform policy-makers and the public about key constitutional issues and democratic debates. Our briefings draw on international evidence and examine both long-term trends and current developments in the UK.

Sign upÌýto our mailing list below and receive an email when eachÌýnew briefing is published.

Reports

• Rebuilding and Renewing the Constitution: Options for Reform. This report, published jointly with the Institute for Government, draws together a range of proposals for constitutional reform. Ranging widely across key constitutional topics, it goes beyond the largest and most contentious matters to present practical options for constitutional ‘quick wins’ and moderate reforms.

Read the report (pdf)