The Rule of Law

The rule of law requires that the government operate within clear legal boundaries, so that no individual or institution stands above the law, including rulers and officials. Despite the diversity of constitutional models around the world, many have experienced forms of imbalance in application, whether due to the expansion of executive power at the expense of other authorities, or as a result of selective constitutional interpretations that do not align, even minimally, with democratic principles.

Legal certainty, procedural justice, and the principle of separation of powers constitute the fundamental pillars of a legal system that ensures laws are known, stable, and applied fairly. All well-established rule of law systems emphasize the supremacy of the constitution, the existence of effective checks and balances, an independent judiciary, and transparent legal procedures. These principles prevent the concentration of power and ensure that the government remains accountable to citizens and to the law.

An independent judiciary represents the cornerstone of the rule of law, where judicial decisions are made based on legal texts and evidence, free from political pressure or personal interests.

Despite the diversity of judicial systems, many have witnessed forms of political interference, unprofessional appointments, or random influences, all of which weaken judicial independence. Ensuring the independence of judges, the judicial institution, and the justice sector, and strengthening that independence, are essential factors in protecting them from improper influence and in ensuring the issuance of sound legal judgments based on the principles of justice, law, and fairness (mercy).