Council of Europe ministers of justice will gather in Strasbourg on 14 and 15 October for a conference being held under the French Presidency of the Committee of Ministers, with representatives from 47 countries. The ministers will discuss access to the law and justice in the digital era and the impact of digital technology on criminal justice.
Although these tools offer tremendous opportunities, care must be taken to ensure that effective access to the courts is maintained, and that there is equality of arms between litigants as well as appropriate rulings according to the characteristics of the offender. In criminal matters, the use of highly effective digital investigation tools also raises important human rights issues.
The digital space now has an important place in our democratic societies. The developments occurring in this area provide opportunities to improve the quality and efficacy of judicial institutions, but also generate new challenges. The fundamental principles of our justice systems, such as independence and impartiality of judges, but also the rule of law and the protection of fundamental freedoms, must be protected in this new digital space.
- Read full press release: Council of Europe justice ministers to discuss digital challenges for justice in Europe
- Photo gallery
Final declaration:
Speeches:
- Marija Pejčinović Burić, Council of Europe Secretary General
- Liliane Maury Pasquier, Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly President
- Linos-Alexandre Sicilianos, President of the European Court of Human Rights
- Nicole Belloubet, French Minister of Justice
Video message by French Minister of Justice Nicole Belloubet
