A mechanism to protect democracy in the EU was "more urgently needed now than ever before," MEPs in the European Parliament said.

In a non-legislative resolution, presented by various cross-party members, the European Commission was called on to propose a comprehensive EU mechanism protecting democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights.

The mechanism proposed would be based on an annual, evidence-based assessment of all member states’ compliance with the values enshrined in Article 2 of the EU Treaty, including country-specific recommendations - as is done for economic policies - followed by an inter-parliamentary debate.

This new instrument, says the resolution, could be linked to the draft legislation proposed by the Commission to protect the EU’s budget in case of deficiencies as regards the rule of law.

It points to rising concerns regarding democracy and rule of law in Malta, Slovakia and Romania and to the high number of infringement procedures against several member states in the field of justice, fundamental rights and citizenship.

The European Parliament warned challenges to the rule of law and democracy posed a risk to freedom, security and justice.