Public Law (10/11/2023)

The lecture addresses the complexities and ambiguities inherent in defining the Rule of Law, noting the absence of universal agreement on its meaning. It explores three perspectives—Raz, Bingham, and Dicey—and their differing views on whether the Rule of Law should be content-free or content-rich. The lecture uses examples such as the Unison case, Anu Fridjeva, and Privacy International to illustrate how courts uphold the Rule of Law, often interpreting legislation to protect citizen rights. It further examines the tension between the Rule of Law and parliamentary supremacy, questioning whether the latter undermines the former. Ultimately, the lecture posits that the value of the Rule of Law lies in its empowerment of courts to challenge governmental actions, even when faced with explicit legislation.