An effective rule of law enables citizens to benefit from independent justice systems, robust anti-corruption measures, a free and diverse media landscape, and strong checks and balances that safeguard their rights and foster trust in public institutions and democracy. This, in turn, provides the necessary legal certainty to support investment, competitiveness, and economic growth. The 2026 European Commission Rule of Law Report assesses the state of the rule of law across the EU and in four potential EU member states: Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.
Overall, the report indicates a generally positive trend, with many EU countries making significant progress and implementing notable reforms. Although some challenges persist and progress is uneven, the report’s findings and recommendations continue to drive reform and change in all monitored countries.
Many EU countries have made significant strides in justice reforms over the past year, including strengthening the independence of judicial councils, introducing additional safeguards for judges’ appointments and disciplinary procedures, and enhancing the autonomy of prosecution services.
All EU countries are now implementing the new EU Directive on combatting corruption, which establishes a framework to prevent, detect, and sanction corruption within the EU. Several EU countries have also developed new anti-corruption strategies and bolstered their institutional capacity to combat corruption. Reforms are underway in EU countries to align their national laws with the European Media Freedom Act. Several EU countries are also strengthening the independent functioning and financing of public service media and ensuring fairness and transparency in the allocation of state advertising.
Journalist safety remains a key priority, with the Commission updating its Recommendation on the safety of journalists. Many EU countries are taking concrete steps to address the issue of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), and the Commission continues to work with them to support the transposition and implementation of the anti-SLAPP Directive.
In some EU countries, shortcomings persist regarding the excessive use of emergency legislative procedures and the lack of stakeholder involvement. Many EU countries continue to ensure a supportive framework for civil society and are working to further improve their operating environment. However, civil society actors in several EU countries still face challenges, including limitations on funding and peaceful assembly. The Report highlights the impact of the rule of law on the functioning of the single market and the operating environment for businesses.
The Commission urges EU countries to address the challenges identified in this year’s report and stands ready to support the implementation of the recommendations. The 2026 Rule of Law Report aims to strengthen Europe’s prosperity, security, and democratic resilience.
