Founding principles & fundamental rights

Core theme: the resilient rule of law

The rule of law is vulnerable. Developments in the EU and the Netherlands indicate that the rule of law is under pressure. How can we make sure that the values of the rule of law are preserved, even under difficult circumstances. And what makes the rule of law resilient? To find answers to these questions, we research the functioning of rule of law institutions, the mechanisms that protect the rule of law and the concept of the resilient rule of law. 

Researchers: Chiel Kuypers, Michiel van Emmerik and Ronald Tinnevelt. 

Sub-theme 1: An honest government

Integrity is important in preventing government officials from deploying public powers to satisfy private interests. Such policy is necessary for the public administration, the parliament and the judge. How that policy is shaped legally depends on group characteristics such as the democratic legitimacy of the parliament and the independence of the judge. How do we unite these values with the pursuit of an honest government?

Researchers: Ella Lerk, Hansko Broeksteeg, Leon Trapman, Max Theunisse, Paul Bovend'Eert and Raymond Schlössels. 

Sub-theme 2: a reviewable government

A transparent, reviewable government is important in preventing people abusing government power for objectives other than the public interests. There are various instruments that ensure that transparency and reviewability, such as government officials being held accountable, making public of government information and legal protection against government actions. How can this reviewability be united with the importance of an effective government?

Researchers: Bob Assink, Dagmar Gerards, Emilia Steendam Visser, Joost Sillen, Nikky van Triet, Paul Bovend’Eert, Raymond Schlössels, Roel Schutgens and Rowin Jansen.

Sub-theme 3: Opportunities and dangers of digitalisation

Digitalisation offers opportunities, but there are also dangers. It can ensure an efficient government that budgets effectively, but it can also put pressure on the rule of law and constitute a threat to the resilient rule of law. For example, through improper influencing during election campaigns. How can the dangers of digitalisation be tackled and the opportunities utilised?

Researchers: Frederik Zuiderveen Borgesius, Maarten Peeters, Maartje Kouwenberg, Ruben te Molder en Tonny Nijmeijer.