The Handbook explores early warning mechanisms – as a means of fundamental rights protection – that extend beyond classic litigation. This material is intended for practicing lawyers, policymakers, representatives of national human rights institutions (NHRIs), civil society organisations, and other stakeholders involved in the defense and promotion of EU fundamental rights and the rule of law. By mapping key mechanisms and their normative underpinnings, the handbook aims to foster awareness and strategic engagement with these instruments.

The annex of this Handbook complements the main material by presenting national-level examples of early warning mechanisms from four EU Member States: Belgium, Hungary, the Netherlands, and Poland.