The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has taken a pivotal step in reinforcing judicial integrity with the introduction of an Ethics Council. Announced recently, the Council is designed to provide advisory guidance to the President of the court on various matters concerning judicial ethics. This initiative has been formally endorsed by the Plenary Court during its session on December 16, 2024, showcasing a steadfast commitment to transparency and accountability in judicial conduct.
The composition of the newly established Ethics Council is notably structured. It will include the most senior Vice-President, the most senior Section President, and the three most senior sitting judges, with the Registrar of the Court playing a supportive role in its operations. The President of the court is authorized to seek the Council’s guidance concerning issues of ethical compliance, which extends beyond current judges to encompass former and ad hoc judges, as well as institutional matters within the court. This move aligns with the updated Resolution on Judicial Ethics, resulting in modifications to Article 12 of the Resolution, further enhancing the institution’s approach toward judicial accountability.
The Ethics Council is expected to address ethical quandaries, steering the prevention of potential conflicts of interest, and maintaining the credibility of the judiciary. According to a 2020 study by the European Centre for Law and Justice, findings indicated that 22 percent of judges at the ECHR between 2009 and 2019 had strong links with various nongovernmental organizations, and instances of non-recusal were reported in over 80 cases where judges had connections to prior employers.
This initiative aligns with global practices, as observed with other international judicial entities. Institutions such as the International Criminal Court and UN tribunals also maintain stringent ethical frameworks that demand adherence to the highest levels of integrity, independence, and impartiality by judges.
For more details on the ECHR’s establishment of the Ethics Council, visit the original announcement on JURIST.