The last Soviet leader leaves a legacy that will never be forgotten.
Author: Charles Richardson
On saving the governor-general, part II
A governor-general with no discretionary power might seem to be something of a waste, but there's a widespread reluctance to inquire about it. And a republic would be unlikely to help.
Preferences and the Republicans
Preferential voting will determine the fate of Sarah Palin, but on a broader front it could make a huge difference to the future of the Republican Party.
On saving the governor-general, part I
The secret ministries affair in Australia has thrown up important questions about the role of the governor-general. The solicitor-general's advice on the matter fails to cast much light.
Election preview: Angola
Angola continues to struggle with the legacy of civil war and one-party rule, but the opposition seems to have its best chance yet for winning government.
Progress in Singapore?
Fifteen years after first floating the idea, Singapore moves to decriminalise homosexuality, in a sign of changing times.
Populism or fascism?
Does Italy's recent experience show populists losing ground to the far right? Or is that a misunderstanding of what "populism" is all about?
August electoral roundup
A regular feature: this month, news from Kenya, Kuwait, Senegal and Canada, plus an update on a Washington story.
Democracy in Alaska
Alaskan voters are trying out a new voting system, which among other things offers them the opportunity to return Sarah Palin to the limelight.
Kosovo is not Crimea
A war scare in the Balkans offers a warning against being misled by the force of bad analogies.
The World is Not Enough 