The rule of law is a fundamental principle of governance that ensures all persons, institutions, and entities, including the government, are accountable to laws that are publicly promulgated, equally enforced, and independently adjudicated. It embodies the idea that no one is above the law and that laws apply equally to everyone

. Key universal principles of the rule of law include:

• Accountability: Both government officials and private actors are accountable under the law

• Just Laws: Laws must be clear, publicized, stable, and applied evenly, protecting human rights as well as property, contract, and procedural rights

• Open Government: The processes of lawmaking, administration, adjudication, and enforcement must be accessible, fair, and efficient

• Accessible and Impartial Justice: Justice should be delivered timely by competent, ethical, and independent representatives who are accessible and adequately resourced

Additional important features include laws being prospective (not retroactive), consistent, avoiding contradictions, and respecting human rights

. The rule of law also requires transparency, legal certainty, separation of powers, and fairness in application

. In essence, the rule of law supports equality before the law, prevents arbitrary use of power, and underpins democratic governance and human rights protection. It is foundational for political stability, economic and social development, and the protection of fundamental freedoms