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In comparison to the first publication of the Rule of Law Report adopted in 2020, Member States and the EU as a whole are much better prepared to detect, prevent and address emerging challenges. This contributes to the resilience of our European democracies and to mutual trust in the EU. It also contributes to a good functioning of the single market and benefits business environment that fosters competitiveness and sustainable growth.
Since its first publication in 2020, the report has become a true driver of positive reforms: two thirds (68%) of the recommendations issued in 2023 have been, fully or partially, addressed. However, in some Member States systematic concerns remain and the situation has further deteriorated. These concerns are addressed in the recommendations of this year’s report.
This year’s report includes, for the first time, four country chapters on developments in Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia. Including these enlargement countries in the Rule of Law Report, the most advanced in the process, will support their reform efforts, help authorities to make further progress in the accession process and to prepare for the continuation of work on the rule of law as a future Member State.
Media freedom and pluralism
Since the last Rule of Law Report, several Member States made concrete steps to improve journalists' safety and working environment, also in the light of Commission initiatives such as the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA), already in force and fully applicable as of August 2025, the 'Anti-SLAPP' directive and recommendation and the Recommendation on safety of journalists.
Read the full press release and the fifth annual Rule of Law Report.