Statements

Existing crisis in the judicial system, unhealthy processes and deficient legislation jeopardizes the idea of fair judiciary in Georgia and constitutional rights of an individual seeking justice to have his or her case considered by an independent, impartial and competent judge. The crises, unhealthy influence exerted over judges and control of the judiciary by certain groups are encouraged by deficient legislation, all of which calls for immediate legislative changes. The campaign Justice Demands launched by the Coalition for Independent and Transparent Judiciary aims to promote implementation of meaningful reforms and to liberate the judiciary from inside or outside influences. 

The campaign demands that the unfair and unconstitutional process of selection of members of the judicial corps that also lacks transparency be stopped and the system of transparent, fair and substantiated judicial appointments be immediately created. The campaign also demands that the possibility to launch disciplinary proceedings against judges that are critical of the government be eliminated, judiciary reform be expedited and electronic system of assigning judges to cases randomly be introduced without any unfounded delays. 

The coalition, implementing the campaign Justice Demands has been working on issues of reforming the judiciary system since 2011. Therefore, the Coalition has concrete views about directionality of reforms for fair, independent and impartial justice. 

Additionally, to address challenges and systemic problems in the judiciary in a timely manner, the Coalition is working on a detailed proposal of reforms and is ready to meet with the Prime Minister, the President and the Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia to discuss prospects of judiciary reform. 

The campaign stands ready to engage in discussions about meaningful reforms with political parties that are focusing on the issue. To this end, the campaign will organize meetings with representatives of different political parties.