THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE RULE OF LAW AND SOCIAL JUSTICE IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETIES

The rule of law, as one of the fundamental pillars of a justice-oriented governmental system, plays a crucial and significant role in the realization of social justice. This concept emphasizes that all individuals, including governmental authorities, must be subjected to the same, clearly defined laws, with no one being exempt from accountability or punishment. In order to secure social justice, the effective enforcement of laws, adherence to principles of equality and proportionality, and their application across various judicial, executive, and governmental spheres is essential. This research aims to address the question of whether the rule of law has a direct and impactful effect on the realization of social justice in contemporary societies. A law-abiding state, functioning according to transparent and just laws, can contribute significantly to the realization of social justice. The core principles of the rule of law encompass the limitation of power, the supervision of governmental authorities, and access to an independent judiciary, all of which must be implemented within the framework of valid legal sources. Furthermore, the alignment between legal frameworks and social norms, the respect for both individual and collective rights, as well as access to fair trials, are indispensable components for achieving social justice. Ultimately, the rule of law, alongside legitimate legal resources, particularly in democratic and human rights-based systems, can foster the enhancement of citizens' rights and freedoms, contributing to the establishment of a just and sustainable society.