OSCE organizes roundtable discussion in Dushanbe on judicial independence

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe conducted a roundtable discussion on the issue of judicial independence for 30 lawyers, legal scholars, and former judges and prosecutors. The event was held on 30 April 2019 and organized in partnership with the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ).

The discussion focused on the current Tajik system for selecting and appointing judges, and the disciplinary system for judges. ICJ Secretary General Saman Zarifi spoke on international standards aimed at preserving judicial independence, and former judge Justice Martine Comte of France spoke on the French experience and features of the French system that are in place to ensure judicial independence. 

“An independent judiciary is crucial for defending the rule of law and human rights in Tajikistan. We appreciate the openness of so many experienced judges, prosecutors and lawyers in describing the opportunities and challenges facing the legal system here,” said ICJ Secretary General Zarifi. “We will incorporate the findings of these valuable discussions in our upcoming report which will include recommendations about strengthening the independence of the judiciary in Tajikistan.”

Participants shared their knowledge and views on the state of judicial independence in Tajikistan. The report and recommendations will inform future dialogue with relevant Tajik government counterparts and serve as an advocacy tool for civil society in their continued efforts to promote international standards for judicial independence.