Rule of Law Indicators as a Technology of Power in Romania

Abstract

Rule of law indicators are relatively new technologies of governance that promise objectivity, efficiency, transparency and consistency. This paper examines rule of law indicators as a technology of power in Romania and identifies two main discourses. First, rule of law indicators are a technology of control by the European Union through the Cooperation and Verification Mechanism. Its disciplinary effects include (re)defining the rule of law as anti-corruption and judicial reform. Second, rule of law indicators are a technology of reform deployed by state and civil society actors unevenly and within distinct reformation domains. This domestic mobilization depends upon indicators’ value added and ability to deliver on promises of objectivity and impartiality.