Equal protection is a legal principle that ensures individuals are treated fairly and without discrimination under the law. It is a key component of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which mandates that no state shall deny any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. This means that laws and policies must apply equally to all people, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or other characteristics. The concept of equal protection is often invoked in cases involving civil rights and discrimination. Courts use this principle to evaluate whether laws or government actions unfairly target specific groups. If a law is found to violate the equal protection clause, it may be struck down or modified to ensure fairness for all individuals.