Rule of law
Find out how the EU promotes and upholds the rule of law within the Union and its member states.
The rule of law is fundamental to the EU's values and its functioning, ensuring that citizens' rights are protected and EU law is enforced.
The EU upholds the rule of law through a structured legal framework and mechanisms designed to safeguard its values and address breaches.
What is the rule of law?
The rule of law requires that public authorities act in accordance with the law, ensuring transparency, accountability and equality. It is a democratic and pluralistic law-making process that includes independent judicial protection, access to justice, and the separation of powers.
It is also a founding value of the EU, enshrined in the Treaty on European Union. As such, it ensures that all EU actions are grounded in legal frameworks that help guarantee equality for all citizens and member states.
Mechanisms to uphold the rule of law
The EU uses several mechanisms to protect and promote the rule of law across the EU and its member states.
Article 7
It gives the EU the power to suspend a member state's rights if it seriously and repeatedly violates the core values of the EU.
Annual rule of law dialogue
The Council reviews the rule of law in the EU and in member states through peer-to-peer reviews.
Infringement procedures
The Commission can initiate legal action against member states that violate the rule of law and refer cases to the Court of Justice of the European Union
Protection of the EU budget
The EU can protect its budget and withhold funding from member states that violate rule of law principles.
Latest explainers
Mechanisms to uphold the rule of law
Article 7 procedures
Rule of law: why it matters
Last review: 15 April 2026