Rule of Law“Rule of Law’ is the idea that all

people are subject to the law

…no one is above it.

Rule of a ManIn some traditional political systems some people are

above the lawFor Example:In an absolute monarchy the King is above the law.He makes the Law and the laws do not apply to him he,

he can do as he pleases.Such systems have a “Rule of a Man/Woman”In such a country everyone but the rulers has

effectively no rights…as he/she can do as they wish.

Rule of LawIn a country that has “Rule of Law”

• Individuals can have rights

• You know what the law is and so can avoid breaking it.

• No-one is allowed to do things against the law

Not even the head of the government.

Rule of Law makes fairness based on not on the wisdom or kindness of an individual that rules

But on the fairness of the laws themselves

The Spread of “Rule of Law”

“Rule of Law”has existed for at least 2500 years

The Ancient Roman Republic had “Rule of Law”

During the Empire the “Rule of Law”ended with the rule of Emperor Nero

In 1649 the English executed an king (Charles I)

For treason establishing “Rule of Law” there.

The US constitution and the constitutions of most modern countries established the “Rule of Law”

For their people.