Shared Justice Meeting

The Balkans have a rich yet complex history, with diverse cultures and a legacy of political and social challenges. In recent years, the region has seen significant efforts towards judicial reform aimed at ensuring fairness and transparency. However, to achieve lasting change, it is essential to move beyond mere strategies and embrace a shared justice mindset. This requires not only institutional reforms but also a fundamental shift in how society perceives and engages with justice. This session will delve into this vital topic, bringing together key stakeholders to explore innovative approaches for fostering a culture of justice and equality.

Key questions to address:

• How can judicial reforms effectively change societal attitudes towards justice?
• What role should civil society play in promoting a shared justice mindset?
• How can political leaders support a cultural shift in the judiciary?
• What are the best practices from other regions that can be applied to the Balkans?

Join us as we bring together politicians, judges, and civil society representatives to discuss the future of judicial reform in the Balkans. This event emphasises the need for a transformative approach that shifts the societal mindset towards shared justice. By fostering collaboration and mutual understanding, we aim to create a fair and equitable justice system.

The Balkans have long grappled with systemic challenges in their justice systems, including corruption, political influence and a lack of transparency. As such, the region’s judicial systems stand at a pivotal crossroads. In this session, we will explore the challenges faced by specialised justice institutions across the region and the imperative need to fortify integrity in judicial appointments.

Key questions to address:

• What are the most pressing challenges faced by specialised justice institutions in the Balkans in the fight against corruption and organised crime?
• How can integrity be strengthened in the process of judicial appointments to ensure transparency and meritocracy?
• What are the achievements and challenges of the vetting process for judges and prosecutors, and how can these insights inform similar efforts in other Balkan countries?
• What role do international partnerships and cooperation play in bolstering judicial integrity and combating cross-border corruption?

From groundbreaking reforms across the region, we will examine best practices and lessons learned in the pursuit of justice. Through candid discussions and shared experiences, we aim to chart a collective path towards a more transparent, accountable and equitable future for the Balkans.

In the Western Balkans, cultivating a culture of accountability is crucial for
meaningful judicial reform. Empowering civil society organizations (CSOs) plays a pivotal role in this transformation. By monitoring judicial processes, advocating for legal reforms and promoting transparency, CSOs can
significantly enhance judicial accountability and public trust in the justice system. Additionally, securing land rights is vital for advancing women’s human rights in these reforms. Ensuring that women have equal access to and control over land strengthens the rule of law and fosters equitable development.

Key questions to address:

• How can CSOs effectively monitor judicial processes to ensure accountability?
• What strategies can CSOs employ to advocate for and achieve significant legal reforms?
• In what ways can securing land rights for women contribute to broader judicial reforms?
• How can increased transparency in the judiciary enhance public trust and the rule of law?

Join us as we explore these essential components for a just and transparent judicial system in the Western Balkans.