The rule of law anchors accountable government. It limits power, protects rights, and shields institutions from capture. Across Central and Eastern Europe, reformers and illiberal leaders now fight over it. They clash on judicial independence, anti-corruption, and constitutional checks. This hub follows those fights. It tracks threats to independent courts. It covers the erosion of checks and balances. It follows corruption and state capture. Anti-corruption drives aim to claw back captured institutions. Efforts to restore checks and balances test how far reform can go. State capture remains the core risk in several member states. The EU rule of law framework and European Union values anchor the defense of democracy. EU rule of law rules also tie EU funds to reform. Fellows and analysts show where reform holds and where it bends. Explore analysis and commentary on the rule of law, judicial independence, and anti-corruption.
Rule of Law
The environmental damage from Russia’s 12-year war on Ukraine is unquestionable, and work is needed to ensure those responsible are punished.
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August 14, 2026
Environmental Justice for Ukraine and Ecocide Deterrence
The environmental damage from Russia’s 12-year war on Ukraine is unquestionable, and work is needed to ensure those responsible are punished.
August 12, 2026
Ukrainian Justice Struggles to Keep Pace with Russia’s Crimes
Ukraine has investigated almost a quarter million atrocities by Russian forces, but its judicial system struggles to meet prosecution demand.
July 21, 2026
‘Operation Cleansing Fire’ Singes Orbán Allies
There has been a breathtaking series of changes in Hungary. The pace is barely slowing as the weeks roll by.
July 10, 2026
Russia Must Remain the Pariah of World Sports
Russia has proved time and again it doesn’t believe in fair play, preferring to cheat at every turn. Vladimir Putin’s sportswashing cannot be allowed.
July 8, 2026
Frontline Felons Have Changed the Way Putin Promotes His War
Fighting in Ukraine has become the only way out of jail for many criminals, but Moscow is using it to paint the war as a path to redemption.
June 16, 2026
Ukraine: New Unaccountable Elites?
War has reduced the power of the oligarchs who dominated post-independence Ukraine. Will Kyiv seize the chance to curb the influence of the super-rich?
June 16, 2026
You’ve No Idea How Much Russia Hates Britain
Keir Starmer’s refusal to adequately fund defense is opening ever-greater opportunities for Kremlin exploitation. Its campaign is already underway.
June 4, 2026
The China-Russia Meta-Threat: The Architecture of Authoritarian Power
Beijing and Moscow are steadily developing a growing partnership, despite obvious friction and structural asymmetries.
May 28, 2026
Hungary’s Blitz of Change
The new prime minister is moving swiftly to uproot the old regime and to ensure Hungarians understand its excesses.