About the Statement

A written statement was issued by the Union Association for Human Rights (UAHR), in cooperation with a consultative organization, under document number A/HRC/56/NGO/161. The statement, submitted to the Human Rights Council at its 56th session (June–July 2024), focuses on the importance of strengthening the independence of judges and lawyers. It calls for upholding the sovereignty of the judiciary and refraining from practices that undermine the independence of justice systems. The statement also commends the United Arab Emirates as a model for ensuring fair and transparent trials.

Statement Content

• The statement commends the efforts of the Human Rights Council to reinforce states’ commitment to their human rights obligations, particularly in ensuring justice and fair trials.
• It also praises the role of the Special Rapporteur on independence of judges and lawyers in implementing Council Resolution 53/12.

Challenges to Judicial Independence:

• Interference in their work by governmental or non-governmental entities.
• Influence on their decisions while performing judicial duties.
• Campaigns that undermine their integrity or question their professional standing.

Appeal to States and the International Community:

The statement calls on states to:

• Fulfill their international obligations to ensure fair trials.
• Provide sufficient legal guarantees to protect judges and lawyers in the exercise of their duties.
• Refrain from any interference that would undermine judicial independence or public confidence in justice systems.

It also stresses the importance of protecting judges from threats or media or political pressure, especially during judicial proceedings.

Highlighting the UAE’s Model:

• Respecting the right to defense and ensuring legal representation for defendants.
• Enabling civil society to observe court proceedings, thereby enhancing transparency.

Recommendations

• Reaffirm international commitment to the independence of the judiciary.
• Support the work of the Special Rapporteur on independence of judges and lawyers.
• Ensure fair and transparent trials, particularly in cases involving national security and stability.
• Respect the authority and decisions of the judiciary, and reject smear campaigns that undermine public trust.
• Urge media and human rights organizations to verify information from credible sources and avoid politicizing judicial matters.
• Recognize the UAE as a model for promoting justice and the rule of law.

Significance of the Statement

• The statement reinforces that judicial independence is the cornerstone of upholding the rule of law and human rights.
• It warns against the politicization of justice or interference with judges and lawyers.
• It highlights the UAE as a state that respects international justice standards and fosters public trust in its judicial system.