Institute for the Study of States of Exception

The Institute for the Study of States of Exception (ISSE) was founded in response to a profound and troubling global trend: the increasingly common exploitation and abuse of executive emergency powers, known collectively as states of exception when invoked. Across the world, select government leaders use real or manufactured crises deliberately as opportunities to expand their authority, suppress dissent, restrict civil liberties, and evade accountability. Other world leaders are watching closely, taking note of how to effectively undermine the rule of law and erode democratic norms in their favor.

We serve as a global hub for scholarship and dialogue focused on the misuse and abuse of states of exception. We provide a platform for interdisciplinary research, analysis, and news, while also cultivating a connected community of scholars, policy practitioners, and concerned citizens worldwide.

ISSE deeply respects the extensive body of scholarship that already exists on states of exception, in the fields of political science and public policy, legal and constitutional studies, history, and philosophy, and other related fields. Yet, despite decades of insight, there remains a need for a centralized global resource dedicated to connecting us all together, raising awareness on examples of these abuses both contemporary and historical, and monitoring global guardrails associated with this critical issue. ISSE fills that gap.