The Rule of Law is the set of principles, norms and institutions that govern relationships between people, and between people and the State. Its purpose is to ensure that public power is exercised within the limits of the Constitution and the law, and that institutions operate according to clear, known and respected rules.
Through participatory and representative democracy, the separation of powers and the principle of legality — under which authorities may act only within the limits of the law — the Rule of Law protects the rights and freedoms of every person and defines the basic rules for coexistence in an open society. This requires not only that laws exist, but that they be clear, stable, public and applied by independent and impartial judges.
At the Foundation for the Rule of Law, we work to ensure that these principles are upheld and respected, because we are convinced that they are the foundation of an effective and functional liberal democracy, and of a country where the Constitution and the rules of the game apply to everyone.
Get to know our principles:
Rule of law and principle of legality
In a Rule of Law, all individuals, institutions, and the exercise of public power are subject to the 1991 Political Constitution and the laws. Rules must be applied fairly, equitably, and predictably, without exceptions or privileges. No one is above the law.
Constitutional government and separation of powers
The division of public power into independent and autonomous branches serves to ensure the liberties of citizens and to control the exercise of power.
Rights and freedoms
All individuals are free and dignified. All people have human rights that predate any political arrangement and which the Constitution and laws enshrine and must protect.
Representative democracy
Elections for public office must be free, competitive, periodic, and peaceful. In a liberal democracy, all people have the right to elect and be elected through participatory, competitive, verifiable, and open electoral processes carried out according to schedules and mechanisms established by law.
Democratic citizenship, civil society and freedom of expression
All people have the right to exercise citizenship. To do so, they must be able to participate in public debates and democratic institutions, as well as in controlling the State. They must also be able to organize themselves in civil society institutions free from State intervention and express themselves freely without fear of censorship or intimidation. The State and its officials cannot use public means or resources to lie, spread partisan propaganda, or persecute opponents.
Equal opportunities
Equality is predicated on opportunities, not outcomes. A just society is one in which people have the possibility to develop their personality regardless of their individual socioeconomic conditions. The State must actively ensure equal opportunities.
Economic growth, private enterprise and the State
Economic development based on the proper functioning of the free market and competition brings prosperity. The most effective way to end poverty is through a dynamic market economy that protects private property rights, the enforcement of contracts, and stimulates competitive entrepreneurial activity. To distribute wealth, it must first be created. The functioning of the free market requires a State capable of monitoring, controlling, and addressing market failures in a manner respectful of the law and individual liberties. Economic growth, wealth creation, and leveraging Colombia’s competitive advantages must be commitments of the State and society.
Macroeconomic stability
The State must protect the heritage of future generations by ensuring the stability of public finances. Prudent macroeconomic management is essential for the country’s sustainable development.
Good government, transparency and fight against corruption
A public administration that is technically competent and morally suitable is necessary. Therefore, the most capable and honest individuals must reach the administration. Corruption, opacity, and clientelism are unacceptable.
Security, sovereignty and monopoly of force
The State must protect the rights and freedoms of individuals and must exercise a monopoly on force throughout the national territory. Personal security is an essential requirement for the enforcement of laws, the realization of rights, and to guarantee development. There are no, and should not be, places off-limits to the Public Force or state institutions, nor places where the Constitution and laws do not apply.
The Foundation has a professional and diverse team, specialized in different areas and committed to our ideas and to Colombia.
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