Strengthening the Resilience of Political Institutions and Processes: A Framework of Analysis
by
Pascu, Ioan Mircea
Nicolae-Sergiu Vintila

Conventional as well as atypical threats and vulnerabilities tend to undermine the core principles and functioning mechanisms of demo­cratic societies. This article examines internal weaknesses and foreign in­tervention operations seeking the manipulation of the electorate and thus diminishing legitimate political participation and questioning the very es­sence of democracy. The analytical focus is on manipulation and disinfor­mation mainly through mass media and social network platforms. This is increasing the risk of undermining public confidence and trust in demo­cratic institutions and processes. The main argument is that democratic in­stitutions and processes can and must be made more resilient. The article provides a framework of analysis for the resilience of political institutions and processes and investigates current initiatives, including of EU and NATO, to strengthen resilience.

Previous Issue

The Spring 2017 issue of Connections presents hybrid warfare in the experience of Ukraine, with examples and ideas how the country can better organize to deliver advanced technologies to the warfighter. Other contributions examine the effectiveness of parliamentary investigations of terrorist attacks, drivers and inhibitors to IS spillover, and pot... Read More