Resolution of the European Association of Judges (EAJ) concerning Poland

The EAJ notes that particular concern has been expressed about threats to the independence of the judiciary posed by recent changes to the judicial system promoted by the executive which are designed to impose a level of political control over the judiciary.

The EAJ expresses particular concern about the lowering of criteria for the selection of candidates to sit on the Supreme Court, and the failure to ensure that the independence and objectivity of candidates is guaranteed. This leaves open the possibility that the membership of the Supreme Court Disciplinary Chamber may in consequence be susceptible to political influence. That is contrary to the exercise of true judicial independence.

Full text of the statement below.