réttarríkisins

Rettarríkisins is an Icelandic term that translates to "rule of law" in English. It refers to a fundamental principle in a democratic society where all individuals, including those in power, are subject to and accountable under the law. This concept emphasizes that laws should be clear, public, stable, and applied equally and impartially. It also encompasses the idea that legal processes should be fair and that there should be independent institutions, such as courts, to uphold these laws and ensure justice.

The rule of law is considered a cornerstone of modern governance and is essential for protecting individual rights and freedoms. It prevents arbitrary decision-making by those in authority and provides a predictable framework for social and economic interactions. In a rettarríki, citizens can trust that their rights will be protected and that disputes will be resolved through established legal procedures. This principle also requires transparency in government operations and accountability for any breaches of the law by public officials. The absence of a strong rule of law can lead to corruption, oppression, and instability.