Hague Setting for Wide-Ranging Rule of Law Debate
The rule of law is emerging as one of the most pressing issues of this century. It is a cornerstone of peace, security, justice and development.

Human rights and the rule of law are not synonymous, but they do overlap and function symbiotically. In the words of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, they "represent universally applicable standards adopted under the auspices of the United Nations and must therefore serve as the normative basis for all United Nations activities in support of justice and the rule of law."
To summarize, the stronger human rights, the stronger the rule of law. Together, they form a framework for decision- and policy-making that is anchored by legality, accountability and participation. In this, they create a fertile ground for development and social transformation.
The rule of law is emerging as one of the most pressing issues of this century. It is a cornerstone of peace, security, justice and development.