Go Quote by Maria Ressa
“Constitutionally you can't have a law go retroactively.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: "The Rule of Law" on PBS NewsHour, 2022
Laws should not be applied retroactively because it undermines legal certainty and fairness.
In simple terms: Retroactive laws are unfair.
Support non‑retroactive legislation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- court rulings
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Should any exceptions to non‑retroactivity be allowed?
- How to balance justice with legal certainty?
Retroactive laws can be politically motivated and destabilizing.