What and who
EJTN is proud to announce a forum for judges. The event is built upon the Council Conclusions “Boosting Training of Justice Professionals” of 8 March 2021. The goal is to promote and enhance the dialogue among judges, facilitate the expert exchange on topics relating to the rule of law as well as the integrity and independence of the judiciary in a familiar and trusting framework.
Unlike in traditional trainings and networking activities, the judges@europe forum will allow judges to bring and discuss cases from their judicial situations in a safe and protected space under the Chatham House Rule.
Admission is open to all judges in the EU. The application can be accessed directly through this website. Two judges per EU member state will be drawn by lot to participate.
When, where and how
The forum will take place at the Siracusa International Institute for Criminal Justice and Human Rights, Via Logoteta 27, Siracusa, Italy, from 5 May, 15:00 CET – 7 May, 14:00 CET. The forum sessions will include:
- Peer consultation: Every judge will be asked to present an individual, real case brought from their own daily work routine and consult by peers on best practice solutions
- Brainstorming and discussion on topics such as What is the rule of law, judges in the public debate, the role of judicial leaders, chilling effects, Separation of powers, and systemic questions
- Interactive session: empowerment and resilience techniques
- High-level keynote speakers from the European Court of Justice
- Discussions with expert and guest speakers
A cooperative initiative
This event is a cooperation between EJTN and the Court of Justice of the European Union, European Network of Councils for the Judiciary, Association of European Administrative Judges, European and International Association of Judges, and MEDEL (Magistrats européens pour la démocratie et les libertés). We are honoured to welcome distinguished guests and speakers from these institutions and networks.
Practical information and registration
Travel and accommodation will be financed (tbc. for judges from Denmark).
Applicants can enrol until 27 March, 23:59. Two participants per EU country will be drawn by lot but pre-grouped to ensure a balanced audience in terms of gender, age, and work experience.
The languages of the forum are English and French.
All selected participants will be asked to orally present authentic, real-life cases from their judicial work and agree to abide by the Chatham House Rule to ensure honest and open dialogue during the forum.