ONLINE EVENT: The functioning of courts in the Covid-19 pandemic

On 9 April 2020, ODIHR is providing a platform to discuss current challenges in OSCE participating States in retaining functioning justice systems despite states of emergencies, curfews and lockdowns due to the Covid-19 pandemic.  

Forty-three judges, members of judges’ associations, representatives of intergovernmental organizations, civil society and OSCE field operations will take part in the conference call.  

The online meeting aims to enable an exchange of information on ways in which policymakers and courts have tried to address challenges in maintaining their key functions during the pandemic. Participants will share lessons learned and discuss possible solutions as well as related risks and shortcomings. Information will also be shared on relevant publications and recommendations of international organizations and civil society.​ 

Courts always perform a vital function in ensuring access to justice, but this is even more important in times of crisis, when governments act on the basis of emergency legislation. Only courts can ensure judicial scrutiny of emergency legislation and provide an effective remedy against emergency measures in individual cases. Access to courts is also necessary in other urgent legal matters, such as those relating to arrest and detention, domestic violence and family disputes triggered by quarantine restrictions. 
 
The event is being organized in co-operation with the European Association of Judges (EAJ).