This thoroughly revised Second Edition provides a refreshed overview of comparative constitutional law and theory. Expert authors investigate the recent proliferation of instances in which the practice of constitutionalism has been compromised by various forms of democratic erosion. New and updated chapters complement the first edition's illumination of key concepts in comparative constitutional theory with a specific focus on its connections to a rise in authoritarian rule. In the face of democratic backsliding, global authors underscore the question of design and investigate how constitutional governance can be enhanced to avert further democratic degradation. The Research Handbook is underpinned by an empirically based study of the core principles of constitutional practice within a cross-national context, including informative discussions on constitutionalism, fundamental rights, and constitutional identity. Notably, this book examines the degree to which illiberal constitutionalism has become an increasingly ominous presence in the (mal)functioning of political systems and acknowledges the pervasive condition of constitutional imperfection. Exploring distinctive constitutional realities, this accessible Research Handbook is a crucial resource for scholars and students of constitutional theory, comparative law, and constitutional and administrative law. It is also a vital read for those interested in constitutional design and interpretation