The rule of law is essential for protecting human rights and democracy.
It means that everyone is treated equally, has access to independent and impartial courts, and that all public authorities act according to the law. It also guarantees legal certainty, so laws are clear and predictable, and establishes checks to prevent the abuse of power. This principle is central to the Council of Europe’s mission.
Policymakers, researchers and practitioners from the Pompidou Group member States and internationally gathered in Vienna and online on 2–3 June 2026 for a thematic seminar dedicated to the topic of online and digital addictions....
Who Does What on the Rule of Law in the Council of Europe
The European Court of Human Rights plays a pivotal role in setting standards through its binding judgments on member states’ respect for human rights. The Venice Commission offers guidance on legal reforms and constitutional matters, with its Rule of Law Checklist offering an evaluation tool. Respect for the rule of law is included in every aspect of work – from making sure responses to cybercrime respect privacy and due process to ensuring that local government treats the public transparently and fairly.
The Council of Europe runs many projects together with governments and civil society to strengthen the rule of law. The Council of Europe Development Bank funds projects touching on the rule of law in public administration and legal systems.
Highlights of the Council of Europe’s Work to Promote the Rule of Law
Rule of Law Checklist
Developed by the Venice Commission, this checklist is aimed at national institutions responsible for the rule of law. At its Plenary Session on 12-13 December 2025, the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe adopted its Updated Rule of Law Checklist. Building on the original 2016 Checklist, which has served as a key reference for assessing the state of the rule of law in countries, the updated version reflects new challenges, particularly those arising from technological changes, Rule of law regression and growing private sector influence.
Convention for the protection of the profession of lawyer
Lawyers play a crucial role in the justice systems of all democracies. They are essential to respect for the rule of law and in particular access to justice for all, and the right to a fair trial and for an individual to have his or her human rights vindicated. The Council of Europe Convention for the protection of the profession of lawyer is a response to the increasing number of attacks on lawyers practising their profession, whether in the form of harassment, threats or attacks, or interference in the exercise of their professional responsibilities.
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