Judicial reform remains key to success of democracy in Ukraine - Borrell

He said this at a press conference following the seventh meeting of the EU-Ukraine Association Council in Brussels on Thursday, February 11, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

“If I had to choose just one, not three, just one, I would point out to the judiciary reform. This is the mother of all reforms. You cannot pretend to have rule of law, human rights, whatever you want, without an independent and efficient judiciary system. This is the core of a democratic country: separation of powers and an independent judiciary. Without this, it is difficult to try to fight against corruption or whatever,” Borrell said.

He noted that he discussed these issues with Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal, in particular, the issue of the Constitutional Court decisions. According to the diplomat, there are three main reasons to work in order to build an efficient and independent judiciary, because this is a fundamental element of a well-functioning democracy and the most important tool against corruption.

“It is something that Ukrainian people need and ask for. Even if the European Union did not exist, this should be an important objective for the Ukrainian society, to build an independent and efficient judiciary. I know how difficult it is, but it is a must,” he said.

As reported by Ukrinform, the Ukrainian government delegation led by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal paid a three-day working visit to Brussels from February 9 to February 11. Government representatives met with the leadership of the European Union and NATO.

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