Retturrefleksjon

Retturrefleksjon, a term of Icelandic origin, broadly translates to "legal reflection" or "judicial review" in English. It refers to a fundamental principle within Icelandic legal tradition and constitutional law. At its core, retturrefleksjon encompasses the judiciary's power to examine and assess the legality of actions taken by other branches of government, primarily the executive and legislative branches. This includes reviewing the constitutionality of laws passed by the Althing (the Icelandic parliament) and the legality of administrative decisions made by government bodies.

The principle of retturrefleksjon serves as a crucial mechanism for upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all governmental powers operate within the bounds of the constitution and existing legislation. It acts as a system of checks and balances, preventing potential abuses of power and safeguarding individual rights. While the precise scope and application of retturrefleksjon have evolved over time and are subject to ongoing legal interpretation, its fundamental role in maintaining a just and lawful society in Iceland remains undisputed. The Icelandic Supreme Court is the ultimate arbiter in matters of retturrefleksjon, with its decisions setting precedents for future legal challenges.