Zelensky releases strategy for development of judicial system — UNIAN

Photo by Vladimir Zelensky/UNIAN

President Zelensky signed a decree on the strategy for the development of the judicial system and constitutional justice for 2021-2023.

The strategy defines the basic principles and directions for the development of the judicial system, taking into account international best practices, the Press Office of the Presidential Office explain.

The document outlines priorities for improving judicial legislation, the status of judges, court procedures and other judicial institutions, as well as activities to take urgent measures to improve the judiciary.

READ ALSOAnti-graft agency publishes latest register of corrupt officials

The document also identifies issues that need to be addressed to further improve the functioning of the judiciary and the administration of justice.

One of the directions of the strategy is to improve judicial services. It is planned to audit the local court system to identify problems and deficiencies in its operation. In addition, the document also aims to strengthen the functioning and procedural efficiency of the Supreme Court.

In addition, the necessary resources should be provided to effectively organize the work of the High Courts against Corruption. In particular, these are permanent premises that meet architectural requirements and safety standards.

Judicial system development strategy: other provisions

Specifically, the strategy provides for improved methods of determining litigation fees in certain categories of cases in order to facilitate access to justice.

There are plans to establish mandatory pre-trial procedures for certain categories of cases, resolve disputes through mediation and other practices, and study the introduction of a system of magistrates.

One of the objectives of the strategy is to strengthen the independence of the judiciary and its responsibility to society. In particular, the formation of the Higher Judicial Qualification Commission and the Higher Judicial Council will be carried out on the basis of an open competition with the participation of international experts.

The document also foresaw the development of institutions and the improvement of the system of defense lawyers.

In addition, the Strategy envisages improving the mechanisms for checking the integrity and compliance of judges of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine with respect to professional ethical standards. It proposes to change the competitive selection procedure for candidates for the posts of judges of the Constitutional Court, with the possibility of inviting the participation of international experts to verify the integrity and level of professional competence of candidates. It envisages taking measures to protect judges of the Constitutional Court from political and other pressures in making decisions and conclusions.

According to the decree, the Law Reform Commission should develop an action plan for the implementation of the strategy for the development of the judicial system and constitutional justice for 2021-2023 together with representatives of central and local authorities, the public and experts.

Furthermore, the Law Reform Commission will inform the President on the implementation of the provisions of the strategy.