The independence of judges encompasses a variety of problematic aspects. A key element
is the relationship of the judiciary to the legislative and executive powers. What
does it mean that judges should be independent, and what is the basis of this principle
from a judicial point of view and from the perspective of the history of ideas? It has
been argued that the growing judicialization of society is increasing judicial power in
relation to the other branches of government. Is this observation correct, and if so, what
consequences might it have for the independence of judges? How much influence should
the executive power have in the administration of the court system, for example in the
process of appointing judges, and can administrative governance threaten the integrity
and independence of judges? What are the international trends in this field? How do lawyers,
prosecuting authorities and social scientists view this principle? What challenges are
posed by a multicultural society? How should the principle be adapted to today’s media
society? The independence of judges also has an impact on states’ obligations under international
human rights conventions and in the context of international solidarity: how
can independent courts with independent judges be established in countries undergoing
a process of transition to democracy and the rule of law? How should the principle be
applied in international courts?