Economics
How executive term limits affect political stability and democratic consolidation
Quick fact
Countries with strict term limits see fewer long-standing authoritarian regimes, but attempts to bypass term limits—like constitutional amendments or self-coups—have led to instability in countries like Russia, Venezuela, and Uganda.
Why this is interesting
Most democracies protect themselves by limiting presidential terms, but some, like Russia, have amended or circumvented them. Why would a rule meant to sustain democracy sometimes seem to threaten it?