Judicial reform in Moldova: Over 200 judges to be evaluated
Over 200 judges will be evaluated this year by the Board for the Selection and Evaluation of Judges, according to an announcement by the Superior Council of Magistracy (SCM), which has approved the evaluation list and schedule.
Judges who successfully complete the evaluation process will receive a salary increase.
According to the SCM, the first group to undergo evaluation will consist of judges temporarily assigned to the Supreme Court of Justice (SCJ), followed by those temporarily assigned to appellate courts. Subsequently, judges from lower courts will be evaluated in order of seniority, with priority given to the most experienced.
“The evaluation process is eagerly awaited by both society and the judiciary, with its primary aim being to ensure transparency and efficiency within the judicial system,” stated the SCM president, Sergiu Caraman.
The SCM also highlighted that initiating the evaluation process through the Board for the Selection and Evaluation of Judges represents a significant step, especially as evaluations are currently conducted by external commissions. “The process of evaluating judges’ performance is a crucial action for strengthening public trust in the judiciary and ensuring an efficient and transparent judicial system.”
The evaluation process carried out by the Vetting Commission in 2024 introduced significant changes to the judiciary in the Republic of Moldova, with several magistrates opting to resign prior to their evaluations. Although this process led to a notable reduction in the number of active judges, the Vetting Commission emphasizes that reform efforts within the judicial system remain ongoing, aiming to ensure a transparent and efficient justice framework.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
