Õiglasust

Õiglasust is an Estonian term that translates to "lawfulness" or "legality" in English. It refers to the conformity of actions, laws, or policies with established legal rules and standards. In the context of law and governance, õiglasust emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal norms to maintain order, justice, and fairness within society.

The concept is fundamental to the rule of law, which asserts that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable under the law. Õiglasust ensures that power is exercised within the boundaries of legislation and that legal processes are transparent, predictable, and impartial. This principle is integral to democratic societies, promoting trust in legal institutions and protecting citizens' rights.

In Estonia, the term is also associated with the constitutional and judicial frameworks that uphold legal standards and protect constitutional rights. Eesti Õigus (Estonian Law) embeds õiglasust as a core value, emphasizing that laws must be applied consistently and justly.

Legal systems around the world adopt the principle of õiglasust to prevent arbitrariness and abuse of power, ensuring that legal decisions are made based on objective criteria. This principle guides legislative drafting, judicial rulings, and administrative actions, fostering stability and social order.

Overall, õiglasust is a cornerstone of legal philosophy, underpinning the legitimacy of law and the authority of legal institutions. It promotes a just, equitable, and stable society where rights are protected, and laws are respected.