A number of politicians in Europe, notably from government parties in Poland and Hungary, are challenging established conceptions around the rule of law – the framework guaranteeing accountable governments and equal citizens’ rights. They pretend that the rule of law is a mere buzzword and claim that it is a political tool used to target them and their political agendas without justification. These claims are packed with myths, lies and half-truths that hinder constructive debates around the rule of law in the EU.

To help politicians, journalists, and any other actors involved in the rule of law debate navigate these muddy waters, Democracy Reporting International (DRI) and Meijers Committee paired up to create the Rule of Law FAQs. These handy cards will help you get your facts straight and be ready to bust the myths that have been built around the rule of law.

Join us on 16 March at 16:30 CET on Zoom for the launch of the Rule of Law FAQs. We will be talking with:

• Daniel Freund, MEP (Greens/EFA, Germany) and
• Katalin Halmai, Journalist at the Hungarian newspaper Nepszava
• Prof Kees Groenendijk, Meijers Committee will hold introductory remarks

The launch event will be moderated by Jakub Jaraczewski, Research Coordinator (Rule of Law), Democracy Reporting International.

Register here

Fact-based knowledge on the rule of law for decision-makers, journalists and citizens

Daniel Freund, a Member of the European Parliament, has been supporting DRI and Meijers Committee in their initiative to produce the Rule of Law FAQs. Ever since the subject has become highly politicised in Europe and more people address it, it is common to find knowledge gaps, stereotypes and common misconceptions when discussing the rule of law in Europe, Mr Feund believes.

“The tool provides decision-makers and journalists but also regular citizens who are interested in the rule of law with facts-based knowledge and arguments”, says Mr Freund. He will be one of the first parliamentarians to work with the new tool.