EU and ACP call for the independence and impartiality of justice

“Respect of the rule of law and the strict separation of powers is a sine qua non for the implementation and functioning of a stable democracy,” insisted  parliamentarians from EU and ACP countries today, while unanimously adopting a resolution co-drafted by Filip Kaczmarek MEP and Dharamkumar Seeraj from Guyana on the respect of the rule of law and the role of an impartial and independent judiciary.

“The lack of separation between different branches of power which leads to a deficiency in the rule of law encourages corruption and has a devastating impact on the economy. Clear law-making, coupled with an independent judiciary, would create confidence for investment and in this way contribute to development,” stressed Filip Kaczmarek. “Having free and independent media is also crucial for this process, as a free press can, together with civil society, contribute to the monitoring and denunciation of a lack of respect for the rule of law,” he added.

In adopting the report, the deputies also stressed the role that education plays in fostering the rule of law and curbing tolerance of corruption. “General popular awareness of a culture of peace, human rights, democracy, rule of law and civil liberties should be included in national education programmes,” said Kaczmarek.

“Meaningful ownership requires the legal empowerment of all parts of society. It should not be forgotten that justice should be equal for all,” he concluded.