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The rule of law means that law and justice are upheld by an independent judiciary. The judgments of the European Court of Justice have to be respected by all. To undermine them, or to undermine the independence of national courts, is to strip citizens of their fundamental rights. The rule of law is not optional in the European Union. It is a must.
Jean-Claude Juncker
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The rule of law emphasizes the importance of an independent judiciary to uphold justice and protect citizens' rights.

This quote by Jean-Claude Juncker underscores the fundamental principle that for justice and legal rights to be maintained, the judiciary must operate independently from external influences. It stresses that in the European Union, adherence to the rule of law is essential for safeguarding the rights of citizens, and any action that undermines judicial independence threatens the very framework of rights and justice in society.

Themes

Rule Of LawJudiciaryJusticeFundamental RightsIndependenceEuropean Union

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech advocating for human rights, to emphasize the necessity of a strong judiciary.

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