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
Failure to address corruption has weakened democracies and enabled organized crime, but Russia and China use graft an instrument of state control.
No Result Found
October 9, 2026
Putin and Xi United by a Love of Corruption
Failure to address corruption has weakened democracies and enabled organized crime, but Russia and China use graft an instrument of state control.
October 5, 2026
The Czechs: 1938 and All That
The Czech Republic marks two milestones in the next few weeks. One celebratory, one somber.
September 21, 2026
Ukraine’s War Widows Fight for Compensation
Disputes over whether soldiers died “defending the motherland” are preventing Ukrainian widows and other relatives from receiving vital compensation.
September 4, 2026
Europe and US Need a Plan for Economic Friendly Fire
New US sanctions legislation is on a collision course with the European Union’s anti-coercion rules. Sensitivity is needed on both sides to avoid a damaging clash of allies.
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.