President conveys message at Assembly of Judges

President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu delivered a message today to magistrates gathered at the General Assembly of Judges. She stated that justice reform remains an essential priority for the state, emphasizing that it is an internal necessity of society. The event was also attended by the European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, Michael McGrath.

In her speech, the head of state stressed that without a functional judicial system there can be no sustainable development:

"Building a peaceful, safe and prosperous country is our shared aspiration. But in order to achieve it, no matter how dynamic economic and social development may be, we need justice. Because without a fully functional rule of law, we cannot speak of a truly civilized country."

Maia Sandu recalled that the authorities launched, a few years ago, a broad reform process which is beginning to deliver results, including through increased public trust in the justice system:

"These results, still fragile but valuable, are largely due to the work of honest and dedicated people within the system. But we must acknowledge that there is still much work to be done before the entire judiciary is infused with the spirit of justice."

The President insisted on continuing integrity vetting and internal reforms:

"For the proper functioning of justice, we must continue the process of integrity evaluation. Sustained action is still needed in areas such as court and resource management, magistrates’ accountability, the unification of judicial practice, and professional training."

In the same context, Maia Sandu underlined that justice reform is demanded by citizens:

"I have said it before and I repeat: we are not reforming justice because the European Union asks us to, but because the people in our country want the law to have the final say; they want to know that when they seek justice in court, they can trust that they will find it. And time is limited."

The head of state also highlighted the role of institutions within the judicial system, including the Superior Council of Magistracy and the Supreme Court of Justice, in strengthening an efficient and credible justice system:

"We are practically talking about a new supreme court, which must bring clarity, predictability and professionalism to the system. The activity of its current composition has already demonstrated transparency and the ability to manage a complicated situation."

At the same time, Maia Sandu drew attention to the shortage of personnel and the need for proper appointments within the system:

"Sustained efforts are needed, especially at the level of the Courts of Appeal, where there are many vacant positions. But we cannot allow vulnerabilities caused by hasty and superficial appointments."

The President also stressed the importance of fighting corruption:

"It should be noted that there is better momentum in the handling of corruption cases. The proper resolution of these cases contributes not only to reducing corruption, but also to protecting national security."

In conclusion, the head of state underlined the direct link between justice reform and the country’s European path:

"The most important reform for the European integration of the Republic of Moldova is justice reform. The next steps in the accession negotiations depend on how the situation in the justice system evolves."

Maia Sandu urged judges to exercise their functions with responsibility and integrity. At the General Assembly of Judges, European Commissioner Michael McGrath highlighted the essential role of magistrates in defending the rule of law:

"The independence and integrity of the judicial system are fundamental to a democratic society," the official said.

He welcomed the progress achieved, including through the evaluation process, and stressed the need to continue reforms in order to build a fully functional and credible system. Around 300 magistrates are taking part today in the General Assembly of Judges. During the meeting, the draft amendment to the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct for Judges was approved, and the 2025 activity report of the Superior Council of Magistracy (CSM) was presented.