The rule of law is a fundamental pillar of the Council of Europe, alongside democracy and human rights. Through original illustrations and accessible text, the new User’s Guide to the Rule of Law explains how legality, legal certainty, the prevention of abuse of power, equality before the law, and access to independent justice contribute to the protection of our freedoms and human dignity.
The guide seeks to help everyone better understand these principles, appreciate their importance, and play a role in ensuring they are upheld in society. It also underlines the interconnection and indivisibility of the rule of law, democracy, and human rights.
“The rule of law promotes democracy because it establishes accountability for those wielding public power. It safeguards human rights through an independent and impartial justice system and protects minorities against arbitrary majority rule.”
The guide is the result of collaboration between the Venice Commission and the Maltese Presidency of the Committee of Ministers, and features 'Lady Justice' illustrations by Maltese artist Nadine Theuma.
To mark the 35th anniversary of the Venice Commission, the exhibition “A user’s guide to the Rule of Law” was displayed in the Anteroom of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, in the Palais de l’Europe in Strasbourg from 4 to 6 June 2025.
- Explore the full guide: “The Rule of Law: A User’s Guide (2025)”
