Kyiv, Ukraine – Despite ongoing efforts to reform its judiciary, Ukraine continues to grapple with a system were compromised judges remain in positions of power, threatening the country’s fight against corruption and its aspirations for European Union membership. Internal divisions and limited oversight within the High Qualification Commission of Judges (HQCJ), the body tasked with vetting judges, are creating opportunities for individuals with questionable ethics to evade accountability.
The persistence of problematic judges undermines public trust in the rule of law, a critical component of both national stability and international support as Ukraine defends itself against Russian aggression. While the HQCJ has implemented procedural changes – including digitization of tests and increased outreach to candidates – concerns are mounting that these measures are insufficient to address deeply entrenched issues and that meaningful reform coudl stall until a new commission panel is established in 2027.
Andriy Pasichnyk, head of the HQCJ, defends the commission’s progress, stating they have “streamlined its procedures” and are improving. however, civil society groups warn that internal tensions and a lack of robust oversight are jeopardizing the reform process. “Some commissioners are committed to reform,” says Mykhailo Zhernakov, head of the Dejure Foundation, “But there is a risk of backsliding. The next composition of HQCJ will be crucial.”
The challenges stem, in part, from inconsistencies in applying standards within the HQCJ panels themselves. Insiders report disagreements among commissioners leading to uneven evaluations of judicial candidates. This lack of uniformity raises questions about the fairness and effectiveness of the vetting process, allowing potentially corrupt or unethical judges to remain on the bench.
The stakes are particularly high as Ukraine seeks to demonstrate its commitment to judicial independence and clarity as a prerequisite for EU candidacy. A compromised judiciary not only hinders the prosecution of corruption cases but also discourages foreign investment and undermines the country’s broader democratic development. The future of judicial reform in Ukraine hinges on addressing these systemic weaknesses and ensuring that the HQCJ operates with integrity and accountability.
