Current European debates demonstrate that the classical concept of the rule of law - as defined in terms of constitutional law - has now become highly politicised. This book over Member States from a fresh and original perspective. It introduces the notion of European policy on the rule of law, and applies to it the methodological tools of public policy analysis. The author establishes a unique analytical framework and highlights many unfamiliar or largely forgotten facts, providing the reader with a better insight not only into this new policy, but also into the source of the related dispute between Hungary and EU institutions. Anyone interested in the workings of European politics is sure to find this a thought-provoking and illuminating read.