About

Protecting Democracy is an educational project that documents recurring ways democratic practice weakens across institutions. Instead of focusing on one country, ideology, or election, it identifies failure modes that appear universally. In local associations, state legislatures, and national governments.

Approach

• Each failure mode is written in plain language.

• Entries describe the pattern, why it matters, warning signs, and possible countermeasures.

• Examples are drawn from multiple levels of governance to show how small patterns scale into larger risks.

Why This Project Exists

Democracy rarely fails in one dramatic event. More often, it erodes step by step through overlooked shortcuts, cultural shifts, and weakened institutions. Recognizing these patterns early is the first step toward building resilience.

This site does not advocate for or against any political party, candidate, or policy. It is not a news site. It is a field guide — a way to see the structural and cultural warning signs that weaken democratic systems everywhere.

Intended Audience

• Citizens who want to recognize warning signs of erosion in their communities.

• Leaders and board members who want fairer, more transparent processes.

• Educators and students looking for a nonpartisan resource on democracy.

Use of Content Content may be shared for non-commercial purposes with attribution. If you adapt this material for teaching, discussion, or community workshops, please reference Protecting Democracy.