Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights

beua1008  2025-2026  Bruxelles Saint-Louis

Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights
5.00 credits
30.0 h
Q2

  This learning unit is not open to incoming exchange students!

Language
English
Main themes
This course delves into the pivotal role played by the European Union in safeguarding fundamental rights and upholding the principles of the rule of law. While its origins were primarily rooted in economic cooperation, European integration has evolved over time to encompass broader political themes, which prominently feature issues related to fundamental rights and the rule of law.
Throughout this course, students gain an in-depth understanding of the European Union's actions in this sphere, examining both the internal mechanisms within the EU and the EU’s external engagement on these critical matters. Given the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of this subject, the course places a strong emphasis on current developments and contemporary issues, ensuring that students are well-versed in the latest developments in this field.
After analysing the historical evolution of the European Union's actions in these areas, the course examines the distinctive aspects of its action in comparison to other international organisations such as the Council of Europe.
The course then delves into various thematic case studies, which provide practical insights into the real-world application of the EU's policies and principles in the protection of fundamental rights and the rule of law. Students will critically assess these cases, enhancing their ability to engage with contemporary challenges in this field and equipping them with valuable analytical skills for the study of EU affairs.
Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :

  • understand the multifaceted dimensions of the European Union's role in protecting fundamental rights and promoting the rule of law
  • understand the tools available to the European Union for safeguarding these principles from a legal perspective
  • critically assess the practical effectiveness and the real-world impact and implementation of these tools
  • understand the legal framework within which the EU operates in the realm of fundamental rights and the rule of law
  • contribute to informed discussions on the European Union's role in protecting and upholding the essential principles of the rule of law and fundamental rights
 
Content
The course will focus on  :
- The content of EU Values
- The protection of fundamental rights by the EU
- The protection of the rule of law by the EU
- The value of democracy at EU level
Teaching methods
The course will be primarily delivered ex cathedra, supported by PowerPoint presentations and readings. Classroom discussions will complement the lectures, allowing students to apply the principles studied to concrete cases.
reading portfolio will accompany the detailed session plan. Each lecture will be associated with a list of readings, including required readings. Additional readings are optional and allow students to deepen their understanding of the course material. The required readings will be available on the course Moodle platform.
In addition, supplementary learning activities will be organized. Students may be invited to participate in one or two events (conferences, seminars, debates) related to the course topics. These activities may take place either at UCLouvain Saint-Louis  or within the broader range of events organized in Brussels on European affairs.
Evaluation methods
The exam aims to assess the understanding and mastery of the concepts and notions presented during the course. It primarily consists of analytical and reflective questions, requiring students to demonstrate a deep knowledge of the material.
To illustrate their understanding, students may be asked to analyze or comment on a press article or any other relevant document, using the concepts, theories, and typologies studied in class in a well-reasoned manner.
Learning activities may also be subject to assessment. This can be integrated into one or more exam questions, or take the form of continuous assessment throughout the semester.
The second session, held in August, consists of a written exam.
The use of artificial intelligence during assessments in this course is governed by the rules outlined in the General Regulations on Studies and Examinations, available on the university’s website. Unless explicitly stated otherwise by the course instructor, the use of AI is prohibited during assessments.
Teaching materials
  • Powerpoints
Faculty or entity


Programmes / formations proposant cette unité d'enseignement (UE)

Title of the programme
Sigle
Credits
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
Master [120] in EU Studies