As Denmark takes over the presidency of the Council of the EU, we do so not just as facilitators of compromise but as custodians of Europe’s core values.
Few principles are more essential to the European project than the rule of law. Without it there is no functioning single market, no mutual trust between member states, and no international credibility. The rule of law is not a side note; it is the spine of everything we do in Europe.
But today, it is under pressure. We’ve seen a pattern emerge across the continent: governments tightening their grip on the courts, media and civil society. Some leaders now openly defy EU standards – not only by dismantling domestic checks and balances, but by obstructing key EU decisions in the Council, for reasons that have little to do with European interests.
This article is part of The Parliament's Guide to the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU.
Hungary is the most visible example, but it is not alone. The problem is structural, not ideological, turning vetoes into bargaining chips rather than a tool of last resort. This game undermines Europe’s unity and resolve, and is not sustainable.
Longstanding Danish tradition of rule of law
As a Danish MEP from one of the main parties in the ruling coalition, I strongly believe that Denmark has a unique opportunity, and indeed a responsibility, to exercise principled yet constructive leadership on the rule of law.
We have a long-standing tradition of respect for legal certainty, transparency and democratic institutions. These are not abstract ideals to us – they are part of who we are. That gives Denmark moral credibility when advocating for the enforcement of EU values.
Fortunately, the EU is no longer defenceless. In recent years, we’ve seen the development of new tools: rule of law conditionality, milestone-based disbursement of funds, and Article 7 procedures. These instruments work to hold those who don’t abide by the rule of law to account – but only if we use them consistently and confidently.
We must now apply these mechanisms more proactively, not just when political pressure demands it, but whenever the facts justify it. Punishment is not the goal; protection is. Protection of citizens’ rights, fair competition and democratic stability across our Union.
Denmark’s presidency will not be able to solve this challenge alone, but it can set the tone. It can prioritise legal clarity, back the Commission when it enforces common standards, and encourage frank discussions in Council – even when they are uncomfortable.
Alongside the Danish government, I will continue to push for a Union that defends its values, because in today’s Europe, silence is no longer neutral. In the face of systematic obstruction and creeping authoritarianism, silence becomes complicity.
The rule of law is not optional. And Denmark is well placed to say so – firmly, clearly and with credibility.
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