Keywords
justice
judicial independence
public trust
corruption
European integration
digital transformation
How to Cite
Abstract
The article provides a comprehensive analysis of judicial reform in Ukraine, a pivotal process for establishing the rule of law and advancing European integration. The study examines the reform’s principles, implementation stages, current state, key challenges, and prospects. The principles of judicial independence, transparency, integrity, and efficiency are identified as the foundation for transforming the justice system. An analysis of programmatic documents, particularly the Strategy for the Development of the Justice System for 2025–2030, highlights a strategic approach to aligning with European standards. The reform’s stages, from establishing the judicial system in the 1990s to significant changes following the 2014 Revolution of Dignity and further advancements in 2020–2025, demonstrate progress, including the creation of the High Anti-Corruption Court and the introduction of e-justice systems. However, the current state of the reform is overshadowed by low public trust, as evidenced by a 2025 Razumkov Centre survey indicating only 14% of Ukrainians trust the judiciary. Key challenges – corruption risks, a shortage of judges, inefficient judicial administration, and residual political pressure – are systematized in a table detailing their causes and proposed solutions. The article emphasizes that overcoming these issues requires not only institutional changes but also active public engagement to restore trust. The reform’s prospects are tied to the implementation of the 2025–2030 Strategy, which envisions the introduction of jury trials and digitalization. The conclusions underscore that the reform’s success hinges on integrating legislative initiatives, practical implementation, and societal support, as the judiciary is not merely an institution but a reflection of the justice society seeks.
References
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