The process of legal and judicial reform, which began in May 1998, has stalled somewhat during the recent period of political upheaval. However, the Constitution has been amended to limit the power of the President and in favour of greater parliamentary control.
At least 64 judges, lawyers and prosecutors were victims of attacks between February 2000 and November 2001. Intimidation against other judicial officers and witnesses contributed to the widespread impunity enjoyed by a wide variety of criminal offenders.
Despite the existence of constitutional and legal provisions guaranteeing the independence of the judiciary, the executive continues to exercise improper interference in the judicial domain.
Concern has arisen recently about the independence of the judiciary in Austria. An indicator of this concern was an open letter that was signed by two thirds of all judges and public prosecutors of the country.
Allegations have also been brought to light about attempts of certain politicians to influence the course of justice in ongoing trials.
The role played by the current Minister of Justice, Dieter Böhmdorfer, has also subject of some public debate.
Attacks on justice 2002-Austria-publications-2002 (full text, PDF)
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