Pathway for Judicial Reform in Syria

Axle 1: Ensuring Independence of the Judiciary

• Create an independent Supreme Judicial Council, where the majority of its members are elected by judges themselves, overseeing appointments, promotions, and accountability.
• Amend the constitution and laws to ensure true separation of powers and eliminate executive authoritys intervention in judicial matters.
• Protect judges from political and security pressures, and ensure they are not dismissed or transferred without a clear legal basis.

Axle 2: Combating Corruption and Strengthening Integrity

• Establish an independent Anti-Corruption Authority in the judiciary, comprising representatives from civil society and lawyers, with broad powers.
• Mandate regular and public disclosure of financial statements for all judges and judicial staff.
• Set up a mechanism for citizens to file complaints against judicial personnel, ensuring transparency and effectiveness.

Axle 3: Reforming Legislation and Laws

• Repeal exceptional laws such as the Counter-Terrorism Law and military courts.
• Review and update civil and criminal procedural laws to expedite procedures and ensure prompt justice.
• Adopt a new constitution that clearly guarantees judicial independence and protects human rights.

Axle 4: Building Judicial Capacity

• Establish an independent National Judicial Training Institute offering continuous training programs in areas like human rights, international law, and judicial integrity.
• Implement transparent criteria for selecting new judges, focusing on competence and integrity.
• Open avenues for cooperation with international judicial organizations to exchange expertise.

Axle 5: Restoring Public Trust in the Judiciary

• Publish court rulings publicly unless they are confidential by nature.
• Allow media and civilian observers to attend trials according to international standards.
• Form independent commissions to review unjust judicial decisions and compensate victims.