Role of EU Court of Justice central: Häkkänen

Minister of Justice Antti Häkkänen on Monday said amidst all the crises the European Union must explain to citizens all the more clearly what benefits the European integration generate.

Defending the rule of law is the clearest indication of the shared common values, Häkkänen said while talking about development of the rule of law to the judges of the Court of Justice of the European Union at the House of Estates in Helsinki, said a government press release.

“European integration has always been based on the respect for human rights and the rule of law. We cannot compromise on these moral values. The European Union must require of its member states stronger commitment to ensure the foundations of the rule of law. By defending the common shared values, we show to the citizens even more clearly why the EU exists at all,” stated Häkkänen in the event organised in connection with the official visit of the Court of Justice of the European Union.

Häkkänen emphasised the central role of the Court of Justice amidst the crises in the EU.

According to Häkkänen, the Court of Justice has an essential role in protecting and defending the basic European values. Increasing openness in all administrative activities will strengthen the trust of citizens in the European Union and its institutions, Häkkänen said.

“The evolving political landscape in Europe is an indication of a growing mistrust of people towards authorities and established institutions. As a counterforce, an open, efficient and independent administration is an indispensable element in ensuring integrity, building trust and helping people gain confidence in the Union and its institutions,” Häkkänen said.

The minister also pointed out that Finland has during her whole EU-membership worked towards promoting transparency in the EU. The case law of the Court of Justice has been central in achieving this goal.