European union Quote by Jean-Claude Juncker
“The rule of law means that law and justice are upheld by an independent judiciary. The judgments of the European Court of Justice have to be respected by all. To undermine them, or to undermine the independence of national courts, is to strip citizens of their fundamental rights. The rule of law is not optional in the European Union. It is a must.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: European Union Rule of Law Address, 2017
The rule of law requires an independent judiciary and respect for EU court rulings to protect citizens' rights.
In simple terms: Independent courts protect rights.
Key Takeaway
Uphold judicial independence.
Themes
law
justice
governance
rights
Mood
serious
determined
Type
political
educational
When to use this quote
- policy making
- legal reforms
- civil society activism
- international relations
Key Concepts
sovereignty
EU integration
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies safeguard judicial autonomy?
- What are the consequences of ignoring EU court decisions?
A Different Perspective
Political pressures can threaten judicial independence.
![“Just like we respect your legal system, you [europeans] should respect our legal system. You cannot impose your values on us, otherwise the world will become the law of the jungle. Every society decides what its laws are, and it's the people who make decisions with regards to these laws.” quote by Adel al-Jubeir](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/105/adel-al-jubeir-16862_decision_just-like-we-respect-your-legal-system-y_2609496.jpg)
![“I don't think in national categories. For me it [policy] is about concepts and substance.” quote by Jean-Claude Juncker](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/911/jean-claude-juncker-3277_categories_i-don-t-think-in-national-categories-for_14194.jpg)
