The Council of Europe calls on Ukraine to successfully complete judicial reform
The Council of Europe has sided with Ukraine and its people and supports steps to establish a fully independent, effective and professional judicial system, according to a statement by Secretary General of the Council of Europe Thorbjørn Jagland.
"As far as we have reached the mid-point of the implementation of the action plan of the Council of Europe for Ukraine, I take this opportunity to welcome the progress made by Ukraine towards reforming the judiciary in order to guarantee its independence, effectiveness and responsibility. Effective implementation of a comprehensive and integrated reform of the justice sector—it’s long-term and complex work for any country. That is why I appreciate Ukraine’s commitment to reforming its justice sector in accordance with European standards,” the statement read.
Jagland noted the significant progress in the development of the legal framework for judicial authorities, as well as the adoption of strategic documents such as the law on the Prosecutor’s Office, on the anti-corruption agency, the Police Act and the Law on the State Bureau of Investigation.
"They may pave the way for further, necessary, structural and procedural changes in the justice system. The Council of Europe is ready to continue to provide already-active support for this progress based on its experiences and advice. The effective functioning of the newly-established, anti-corruption institutions, further development of the system of free legal assistance and improving the implementation of the rulings of the Court and ECHR are all crucial,” Jagland noted.
The Secretary General urged the Ukrainian government to take all necessary steps to successfully complete judicial reforms in accordance with the expectations of the Ukrainian people and in compliance with European standards.
"Further progress is needed to achieve stability in the country and to restore public confidence in the judicial system. Judicial reform is a prerequisite for successful reforms in other areas, such as economic growth and prospects for foreign investments,” he emphasized.
Jagland also noted that the achievements should be enshrined in the Constitution which must be the basis of national unity. "The reform process requires a strong constitutional foundation. That is why the adoption of the draft amendments to the Constitution prepared by the Constitutional Commission and submitted by President Poroshenko to the Verkhovna Rada is an important and decisive step towards successful reform.”