How gender equality relies on the rule of law

The rule of law is under intense pressure across Europe. Here’s a new way to understand and protect it.

You may have heard the term ‘Rule of Law’ come up a lot more recently – in conversations, both on and offline. 

And you may have a sense of what it means but you can’t quite put your finger on it directly. 

At its core, the rule of law means that laws are applied equally, fairly and predictably to everyone. 

“The rule of law is the foundation our democracies stand on. It’s how people can go about their lives in the confidence that the law is protecting them – whether they’re signing a job contract, renting a home, setting up a business or speaking up for their rights and freedoms. In every country. And for everyone,” says EIGE Director Carlien Scheele.

The rule of law is being talked about more prominently because it is increasingly under pressure in Europe and around the world. Think democratic backsliding, gender disinformation and anti-gender movements designed to undermine how far we have come in achieving more inclusive and just societies. 

A useful way to picture the rule of law is as a city’s metro system. 

Most days, you don’t think about the tracks, signals or control room. You just expect the trains to run, the routes to connect, and the system to work as usual. 

“Gender equality and human rights depend on this kind of infrastructure. When that infrastructure breaks down, people really feel it – like with most things you may take for granted – you only notice the rule of law when you need it, but it isn’t there,” adds Carlien.

Think of the protections many of us use (or may need) as different lines on that network: laws on equal pay and equal treatment at work; safe and fair access to services; protection from harassment and violence; and the ability to complain, get a decision, and have it enforced. They work only when the whole system is functioning.