Reforming Courts and the Judiciary

 

By consistently enforcing clear rules, an independent and impartial judicial system supports the rule of law and promotes economic and social development. An effective judiciary applies and enforces laws and regulations impartially, predictably and efficiently. Economic growth and social development cannot be sustained and promoted in countries where the justice system fails.

Reforming courts and the judiciary is a complex undertaking. Reformers have to be well aware of the role, purpose and key attributes of courts. They also have to take into consideration the political economy and social context in which they operate.

Judicial reform efforts generally aim at enhancing the performance of the court system and thus the quality of delivery of judicial services. They often imply changes of the organizational structure of the court system, improvements of resources management, and procedural reform.

This page comprises the following main topics.

   Role and Purpose of Courts

   Performance Management

   Organizational Structure

   Resources Management

   Procedural Reform