Rule of Law

The rule of law is a foundational principle where all individuals, organizations, and the state itself are subject to laws that are democratically enacted, publicly disclosed, consistently enforced, and independently adjudicated. These laws must align with international law, especially human rights standards. Key elements include: government actions based on written laws; prohibition of retroactive sanctions; uniform application of rules to all; and guarantee of due process before deprivation of life, liberty, or property.