Time to stand up for the rule of law in Europe

The values associated with the rule of law in Europe were hard-won and must not be undermined by the actions of some EU governments, writes Noelle O Connell

People take part in the Equality Parade, the largest gay pride parade in central and eastern Europe, in Warsaw, Poland, amid a backlash in Poland and Hungary against LGBT rights. Picture: Czarek Sokolowski/AP

The rule of law within the European Union is under threat. At a time when the EU strives to defend this universal value globally, it risks being gravely undermined from within by some EU member states.

The rule of law is a well-established principle of the international order and is entwined with the protection of human rights.