The Rule of Law

What is the Rule of Law and why is it important?

What does it mean?

In its simplest form, the rule of law means that “no one is above the law”. For the rule of law to be effective, there must be equality under the law, transparency of law, an independent judiciary and access to legal remedy. Yet, 57% of the world’s population lives outside the shelter of the law. That’s 4 billion people struggling for basic human rights on a daily basis.

The Equation

The rule of law is the foundation for the development of peaceful, equitable and prosperous societies. We believe there are four key areas that form the umbrella protection of the rule of law.


The Rule of Law Equation

Areas of the Rule of Law Defined

The stronger each of these components are, the greater the rule of law.

Equality Under the Law

All people, businesses and governments are accountable, and the law applies to everyone in the same way, no matter who you are.

Transparency of Law

Laws must be clear, precise, affordable and accessible while protecting fundamental human rights.

Independent Judiciary

An independent judiciary ensures equality and fairness of law between people and public officials.

Accessible Legal Remedy

There must be access to timely resolution in a court of law.

What do we do about it?

We run the Rule of Law Foundation, a non-profit that seeks to independently measure and invest in programmes that enhance the rule of law worldwide.

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