On December 17, 2024, the High Council of Justice made a significant decision by approving the Unified Criteria for Evaluating the Integrity and Professional Ethics of Judges and Judicial Candidates (Decision No. 3659/0/15-24). The document aims to ensure transparency, objectivity, and high standards in the selection and evaluation processes for judges.

The Unified Criteria were developed based on the Constitution of Ukraine and relevant laws, with consideration of international standards and recommendations. The document establishes clear evaluation criteria for judges according to the following key indicators:

• Independence – the ability to make decisions free from external influence.
• Impartiality – avoidance of conflicts of interest and discrimination.
• Integrity and conscientiousness – adherence to ethical norms in professional and personal conduct.
• Compliance with ethical norms – maintaining high professional culture and behavior consistent with the status of a judge.
• Lifestyle compatibility with declared income.

The evaluation of integrity and professional ethics will be conducted with respect for human rights, objectivity, and the use of reliable data. Judicial dossiers, official registries, and other sources of information will be analyzed, along with the recommendations of international and civil society organizations.

Importantly, the evaluation will apply to both current judges and judicial candidates. Procedures will be based on uniform standards, ensuring equal conditions for all participants.

The development of the Unified Criteria was the result of active collaboration among the High Council of Justice, the High Qualification Commission of Judges, the Council of Judges of Ukraine, the Public Integrity Council, and international experts. The involvement of civil society organizations and adherence to best practices align with the recommendations of GRECO, the European Union, and international monitoring bodies.

This document is designed to enhance public trust in the judiciary and represents a crucial step in fulfilling Ukraine's commitments to the European Union as part of the European integration process.

The approval of the Unified Criteria marks a key milestone in judicial reform, aimed at improving the professionalism and integrity of the judiciary. These innovations will help ensure transparency and alignment with international standards.

The full text of the decision and details on the new criteria are available on the official website of the High Council of Justice.