A rigorous reform program begun as a result of the 1999 National Judicial Reform Conference, including the establishment of an adversarial system for criminal cases, has led to better public perception of judicial integrity.
Throughout 2002 and the first half of 2003, the judicial system barely functioned as ethnic conflict continued in the Solomon Islands.
Separation of powers in New Zealand is generally effective and respected in practice. Both the judiciary and the legal profession fulfil their duties in an ethical manner free from interference.
Timor Leste’s judicial sector, including the legal system and the police service, remains fragile. It continues to be plagued by a lack of competent judicial actors, resources, training and management.
There are long delays in getting matters before the courts and in getting hearings, doctors do not attend court to answer questions regarding medical reports, people are unlawfully held in custody as a result of court delays and the police either fail to understand or abuse their powers. There is an extensive backlog of cases, with figures showing that judges in the district courts that are operating, mainly the one in Dili, have handled approximately four cases per year.
East Timor-Attacks on Justice 2005-Publications-2008 (full text, PDF)
The absence of judicial independence continues to represent a serious menace to state development and to human liberties.
Joint Statement on Viet Nam’s Transnational Repression in Thailand
HRC62: ICJ Calls on Nepal to Strengthen Accountability and Protect Civic Space
In memory of Gustavo Gallón
Tunisia: Conviction and sentence of Anas Hmedi, President of the Association of Tunisian Magistrates, must be quashed