The Venice Commission has issued an opinion regarding proposed legislation concerning Serbia’s Judicial Academy. The Commission recommends excluding the Minister of Justice and representatives from the Ministry from the Academy’s governing board to ensure its independence. While accepting the concept of the Judicial Academy as the sole provider of initial and continuous training for judges and prosecutors, the Commission stresses the need for a firewall between the executive branch and the institution. This recommendation aims to safeguard the Academy’s autonomy and prevent political influence over judicial training and professional development. The opinion also addresses other aspects of the draft law, focusing on maintaining the Academy’s operational independence and ensuring a transparent selection process for its director. The Commission’s assessment is intended to align Serbian legislation with European standards for judicial independence and integrity.
