Multilevel protection of the rule of law and fundamental rights : the role of local and regional authorities and of the Committee of the Regions

The file note consists of three parts of which the second part is the most extensive. The first part provides an overview of the policy field at EU level. It focuses on the current legal framework, its shortcomings and critical assessment of the 'new EU framework'. In the second part, the File note focuses on what local and regional authorities (LRAs) do and can do to safeguard the rule of law and fundamental rights. This is elaborated on the basis of a number of examples/mini-case studies which take geographical diversity, diversity of competences and diversity of issues (rights and rule of law) into account. The File note presents seven brief case studies. These case studies were prepared by experts from different countries. Each prepared a briefing note on the case study. These examples illustrate different roles LRAs can play in protecting fundamental rights. Part 2 starts off with an identification and general discussion of roles. Part three builds on the second part and develops recommendations, both for LRAs and the CoR.