Background

At the invitation of the Government, the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, Margaret Satterthwaite, will conduct an official country visit to 29 July to 9 August 2024.

The Special Rapporteur invites all interested individuals and organizations, including civil society organizations and academics, to provide input to assist her in preparing for the visit.

Key questions and types of input/comments sought

While all input is welcome, the Special Rapporteur would be grateful for comments that address in particular any or all of the following topics:

• The existing legal and policy framework with regard to the independence of judges or lawyers;
• Relevant developments affecting the independence of judges or lawyers;
• Relevant developments concerning the ability of the judicial system to protect human rights, including issues such as access to justice and the right to a fair trial.
• Judges and prosecutors:
  • Selection and appointment of judges and prosecutors
  • Professional training
  • Conditions of service and irremovability
  • Freedom of expression and association of judges and prosecutors
  • Disciplinary measures, suspension and removal from office
  • Representation of groups that may face discrimination in the judiciary and the prosecution service
• Lawyers:
  • Existing legal and policy framework for the protection of the free and independent exercise of the legal profession
  • Composition and functioning of the Bar Association
  • Access to the legal profession and admission to the Bar
  • Guarantees for the free and independent exercise of the legal profession and the role of the Bar Association, if any
  • Information on disciplinary procedures, suspension, and disbarment
  • Representation of groups that may face discrimination in the legal profession
  • Access to justice, legal aid, and legal services, including the possibility for community justice workers to provide legal services.