On 14 July 2026, the Council approved conclusions evaluating the annual rule of law dialogue, confirming its current format and agreeing to continue it with specific adjustments for all Member States. The dialogue will maintain its existing structure: a general horizontal discussion in the second semester, plus country-specific discussions three times a year (two in the first semester, one in the second), each covering four Member States. The dialogue must analyse at least four rule-of-law pillars: the justice system, anti-corruption framework, media pluralism and freedom, and other institutional checks-and-balances issues. It will continue to be based on the Commission’s annual Rule of Law Report, including its recommendations. The Presidency must ensure principles of objectivity, non-discrimination, equal treatment, non-partisan and evidence-based approach, and respect for national identities are fully respected. All incoming Presidencies must convene the dialogue according to this agreed format and frequency. A new evaluation of the experience acquired must be undertaken by the end of 2027. Italy submitted a statement endorsing the peer-to-peer approach and stressing the dialogue’s political, preventive, and non-legally binding nature. The conclusions represent a procedural reaffirmation of the existing mechanism, with a slightly revised schedule and a mandatory future review.
The decision impacts EU institutions and Member States by reinforcing the current non-binding, peer-review-based approach to rule-of-law monitoring, which some critics argue lacks enforcement teeth. The new evaluation by end-2027 could lead to further adjustments. The Council's move signals continuity rather than reform, maintaining the dialogue as a political tool rather than a legal compliance mechanism.