The United States of America is a federal republic: a federation of states governed by written constitutions,” wrote Russell Kirk. The Constitution created a republican form of government. A foundational aspect of our system is representative government.

After the recent government shutdown, many of us are questioning — and not for the first time — the wisdom, benefits and efficacy of America's two-party system. In theory, it makes sense: Each party keeps the other honest by providing a counterweight against ideological extremism.

A new study from the SNF Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins University and Public Agenda finds that Americans are deeply concerned about the state of U.S. democracy and that growing divisions within the Republican Party deepen partisan divides over how the Constitution should guide presidential authority and the balance of power.

Foreign assistance is a statecraft tool that complements military and economic instruments. It can help lead to changes—like making a country’s governance systems more resilient to foreign interference or more suitable for American business investments—that benefit the United States at the expense of its rivals.

What is the difference between representative government and the government in ancient Athens? In a representative government, there is no institutional role for the assembled people. However: Athenian city-states were known for their ‘direct democracy’.

Kyle Ingram is The News & Observer's democracy reporter.

A small corner of Belgium is recruiting ordinary citizens to help create policies. Participants say it’s renewed their faith in government.

Amnesty International's secretary general says Syria's new authorities show some commitment to reform, transitional justice and reconciliation.

Trump is not ready to "undertake the long, expensive, institution-building project that democratization requires."

Hong Kong bans the Hong Kong Parliament and Democratic Independence Union under Article 23. Members and donors face up to 14 years in jail and $128,000 fines.