Ukraine moves forward with reforms in judicial sector as it progresses along European Union path
The EU Ambassador to Ukraine, Katariina Mathernova, has welcomed the appointment of Ihor Kushnir to the High Qualification Commission of Judges of Ukraine (HQCJ). The move is part of Ukraine's ongoing judicial reforms and comes amidst close scrutiny from the EU, which is emphasising the importance of the rule of law and the fight against corruption.
The HQCJ is a crucial body responsible for evaluating the qualifications of judges in Ukraine. Its 16 members are appointed by the High Council of Justice, which is responsible for appointing judges in Ukraine.
The appointment of Ihor Kushnir, a retired Supreme Court judge, was made to fill the vacancy created by the dismissal of Roman Ihnatov in March 2024.
Mathernova's comment on the appointment was reported by both Ukrainska Pravda and European Pravda. She expressed optimism about future steps in Ukraine's judicial reforms, stating that the move is a step forward in Ukraine's progress towards the EU.
The EU's expectations for Ukraine are clear. They include the independence of anti-corruption agencies like NABU and SAPO, reforms in the judiciary, the appointment of Constitutional Court judges, legislative reforms, and consistent progress in these areas. The EU calls for Ukraine to demonstrate a systemic commitment to positive change beyond isolated reforms, essential for Ukraine's EU accession aspirations and its own internal stability.
Mathernova's comment was made via a post on Twitter, reflecting the ongoing dialogue between the EU and Ukraine regarding judicial reforms. The High Council of Justice completed the composition of the HQCJ by appointing Ihor Kushnir on August 12.
Sources:
- Ukraine's judicial reforms: What the EU expects
- Ukraine's High Council of Justice Appoints New Member to High Qualification Commission of Judges
- EU Ambassador Welcomes Appointment of Ihor Kushnir to HQCJ
- The ongoing dialogue between the EU and Ukraine regarding judicial reforms sheds light on the importance of policy-and-legislation, particularly in areas such as the independence of anti-corruption agencies, reforms in the judiciary, and legislative reforms, for the health of Ukraine's economy and political stability.
- The appointment of Ihor Kushnir to the High Qualification Commission of Judges of Ukraine (HQCJ) is a significant step forward in Ukraine's efforts to meet the EU's expectations, signaling a commitment to general-news items like rule of law, the fight against corruption, and progress towards EU accession.
