Constitutional Principles and the Health of Democracy

This project seeks to inform debate about UK democracy and constitutional change, and to promote the importance of maintaining constitutional and democratic standards.  

It uses high-quality analysis to 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. Working closely with practitioners from across the political spectrum, and with other independent groups and individual experts, it covers a wide range of constitutional topics. 

The project focuses on the UK, but draws on international evidence. It is particularly informed by academic work on the global phenomenon of ‘democratic backsliding’. This growing body of analysis explores how the vital ingredients for healthy democracies to function – effective checks and balances, strong democratic institutions, and respect for norms – can be undermined even within well-established democracies, and the steps that those democracies can take to maintain a healthy political system.

Details of the project’s key outputs can be found below.

Briefings

Short briefings designed to inform policy-makers and the public about key constitutional issues and democratic debates. They cover topics from the constitutional principles that underpin democracy to the role of citizens’ assemblies. 

18 briefings are available in both webpage and PDF format and are up to date as of October 2025. Every briefing is listed on the briefings page.

The Constitutional Landscape: Options for Reform

This 2025 report provides a concise overview of the current situation and possible reforms in 31 areas across the constitutional landscape. It is written by experts who both research and have worked with policymakers on constitutional reform.

MPs’ Role in the Constitution: A Practical Guide

MPs have a huge and important job, which is central to the UK’s political system. This short guide, written by the Constitution Unit in collaboration with other expert organisations, is designed to help them navigate their core constitutional roles and functions.

Rebuilding and Renewing the Constitution: Options for Reform

This 2023 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.

Project information 

This project is led by Professor Meg Russell, in collaboration with Professor Alan Renwick. The staff on the project are Lisa James and Rowan Hall. The project team also formerly included Tom Fieldhouse and Sophie Andrews-McCarroll. It has run since 2022.

The project is funded by The Legal Education Foundation. 

Image attribution: ‘Despatch Box & Chamber’ by House of Commons (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0).