Annotation

This article analyzes the practice of the constitutional courts of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus in interpreting and applying the principle of social justice, taking into account pre-defined issues. The author concludes that there are both common patterns and significant differences in the courts approaches. It is noted that both courts apply the principle of social justice across a wide range of social relations; however, unlike the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation, the majority of decisions of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Belarus where this principle is applied concern the socio-legal sphere. The analysis includes discussions on the relationship between the provision of principles of social justice in legislation and their active application by constitutional courts. Particular emphasis is placed on the criminal law sphere, due to the fact that the constitutional courts of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus frequently refer to the principle of social justice, which correlates with its enshrinement in the criminal codes of both countries. Specific examples are presented of how the courts develop and interpret the principle of social justice when considering cases related to various spheres of social relations.