Ukraine proceeds with judicial reforms as EU Ambassador remarks on the appointment of a new Supreme Court Justice
In a significant move towards strengthening judicial independence and intensifying anti-corruption reforms, Igor Kushnir has been appointed as a member of the High Qualifications Commission of Judges (HQCJ) of Ukraine. The vacancy on the commission, which appeared in March 2024, was filled on August 12, 20XX.
The European Union (EU) has expressed high expectations following this appointment, urging Ukraine to take critical steps to secure institutional independence, reinforce the rule of law, and demonstrate a systemic commitment to reform. Key demands include the return of international experts to the HQCJ Selection Commission with a casting vote, the appointment of constitutionally vetted judges, the rejection of problematic Criminal Code amendments, and the adoption of a law on administrative justice to establish specialized courts reviewing government actions [1][2][3].
These reforms are seen as critical for unlocking Ukraine's path towards EU membership. The EU emphasizes that political will, particularly from the President's Office, is decisive for success. The restoration of independence to anti-corruption bodies like NABU and SAPO, and the full implementation of associated reforms, are seen as vital signals that Ukraine honours its commitments and upholds core European values [1][2][3].
The EU Ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Maternova, welcomed the appointment of Igor Kushnir and expressed anticipation for further steps in Ukraine's judicial reforms. Maternova made her comments on social media platform X on August 12, 20XX [4].
Igor Kushnir, a retired judge of the Supreme Court, joins a commission of 16 members in total, with the High Council of Justice having completed the composition of the VCCS (High Qualifications Commission of Judges) with his appointment. Notably, Roman Ignatov was dismissed from the commission prior to Kushnir's appointment [5].
The leaders of the European Union have publicly emphasized the importance of two key areas in Ukraine: the rule of law and the fight against corruption. Ukraine's judicial reforms were central to Maternova's comment, underscoring the EU's ongoing interest and support for Ukraine's progress in these areas [6].
References: 1. European Truth 2. Euractiv 3. Reuters 4. Twitter 5. Ukrainian Legal Portal 6. Euronews
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