Uniting to protect our Rule of Law
The Quebec Declaration on the Rule of Law
At the inaugural Quebec Rule of Law Summit, a collective commitment was made to uphold the principles underpinning our democracy.
Quebec has chosen to build a society founded on the rule of law so that we may live together freely, debate, advocate, create, innovate, and fl ourish within a shared framework based on justice, stability, and respect.
On this 9th day of September 2026, we together declare that:
The rule of law ensures that no one is above the law and that laws apply to everyone in an independent, foreseeable, and equitable manner.
he rule of law is a foundation for stability, social trust, economic vitality, and the ability to have faith in the future.
he rule of law depends upon mutually reinforcing principles. When one of these pillars grows weaker, the construct of the whole is threatened.
The rule of law remains a collective, living, yet fragile construct. It is up to all of us to understand, defend, and reaffi rm it.
On this occasion of the inaugural Quebec Rule of Law Summit, we choose to make the protection of the principles underpinning our democracy a shared responsibility.
Because freedom, justice, and democracy can never be taken for granted, we commit to:
Instilling the principles of the rule of law in our institutions and businesses, as well as in our communities.
Raising awareness of the value and scope of the rule of law so that everyone is in a position to rely on it and help defend it.
Strengthening public trust in democratic and judicial institutions through openness, transparency, and accessibility.
Defending democratic institutions when they are threatened, challenged, or weakened.
Increasing legal literacy through education in civics.
Supporting active participation in democratic life via elections and citizen participation mechanisms.
Promoting respect for rights, freedoms, and shared rules in a spirit of inclusion and equity.
Fostering empathy in dialogue regarding the rule of law.
Countering disinformation and promoting a respectful public sphere informed by credible information that fosters critical thinking.
Facilitating simple, affordable, and equitable access to justice so that everyone can assert their rights.
Ensuring the ethical and responsible use of artifi cial intelligence and technological advancements.
Passing on a vibrant, strong, and resilient rule of law to future generations, thereby contributing to their economic and social prosperity.
The rule of law is the product of our choices. It endures through our vigilance and is preserved by our commitment.
