28
Apr
2026
Watch
The Commission’s 2025 Rule of Law report (debate)
Mr President, Commissioner, respect for the rule of law is not just a legal process. It is the pillar on which citizens' trust in institutions, the protection of their rights and the proper functioning of Europe rest. Conscious of the responsibility and importance of the work entrusted to us, we managed, together with the other rapporteurs, to bring a balanced text to the vote. The report stresses that upholding the rule of law across the Union continues to require continued vigilance. On the other hand, however, it recognises the significant progress made on a number of issues. Considering the steps taken as positive, I mention, for example, the reforms that strengthen judicial independence at national level, as well as the measures taken by some Member States to decongest prisons and improve detention conditions. Perhaps some points are particularly critical of the functioning of the rule of law in Hungary, but recent developments with the change of governance I hope will give a new perspective on the level of cooperation for a clear European direction in the country. I think it is worth noting that the text proposes innovative ideas, such as the annual rule of law cycle. This should add value to Parliament's report and strengthen inter-institutional cooperation. Finally, I consider it particularly important that the text incorporates the enlargement dimension of Europe and calls on the accession countries to take ownership of the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary and highlights the need to respect the fundamental rights of national minorities. The correct application of the rule of law is not a theoretical exercise, it is a political responsibility.