praworzdnoci

Rule of law, or praworządność in Polish, is the principle that government authority is constrained by law and that laws prevail over arbitrary decisions. It requires laws to be publicly enacted, clear, stable, and applied equally to all, including those who govern. It also demands that government power be exercised only on the basis of law and that legal rules are enforced in an impartial manner.

Core elements include legality, accountability, and transparency; separation of powers; and independence of the judiciary. The judiciary should be free from political pressure and able to review both legislation and executive actions. Fundamental rights and due process must be protected, including equality before the law, presumption of innocence, and access to remedies.

Role and impact. A strong rule of law provides predictability for individuals and businesses, protects human rights, and limits government overreach. It serves as a check on arbitrary power, reduces corruption risk, and supports democratic legitimacy. When effectively implemented, praworządność fosters stable governance and contributes to economic development by creating a reliable legal environment.

Challenges and debates. Implementing the rule of law can be difficult where political influence seeks to shape courts or where emergency powers or reforms threaten judicial independence. Balancing security with rights, addressing backlogs and resource constraints, and ensuring regulatory transparency are common issues. International norms and domestic reforms can interact in complex ways, leading to ongoing debates about sovereignty, legitimacy, and scope.

Measurement. Various international indices assess elements such as judicial independence, constraints on government power, absence of corruption, and access to justice. Assessments are context-dependent and continually evolving as jurisdictions reform their legal systems.