Zelensky signs decree to accelerate judicial reform, punishing corruption with up to 15 years imprisonment

President Volodymyr Zelensky put into effect the decision of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine "On accelerating judicial reform and overcoming manifestations of corruption in the justice system," according to which corruption in courts will result in imprisonment for 10-15 years with confiscation of property.

The Office of the President reported this on its official website.

"In accordance with Article 107 of the Constitution of Ukraine, I issue a decree: to implement the decision of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine dated June 23, 2023 "On accelerating judicial reform and overcoming manifestations of corruption in the justice system," the document stated.

The decree enters into force from the day of its publication.

According to the decision of the National Security Council, it is proposed, in particular, to make changes to the Criminal Code to strengthen criminal liability for criminal corruption offenses in the sphere of justice. At the same time, punishment in the form of imprisonment for a term of 10 to 15 years with confiscation of property is provided.

In addition, it is proposed to strengthen the role of the institution of the jury trial and expand its application.

In addition, the decree also provides for conducting an inspection of all Supreme Court judges by the Supreme Council of Justice on the subject of:

• possible commission of disciplinary offenses by them,
• gross or systematic neglect of a judge's duties,
• confirmation of the legality of the sources of origin of the property.

Among other things, it is offered to:

• improve the procedure for electing Supreme Court judges to the Grand Chamber of the Supreme Court,
• introduce a mechanism for their recall by meetings of judges of the relevant cassation courts.

Also, the decree allows for the possibility of introducing a periodic psychophysiological survey of judges using a polygraph, etc.

For reference:

It should be noted that the Cabinet of Ministers [Ukraine's government – ed.], in cooperation with the European Commission for Democracy through Law [Venice Commission – ed.], will need to prepare a concept for further reform of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine.

Earlier, Rubryka wrote that an inspection of courts would be conducted in Ukraine, and criminal liability for corruption offenses in the sphere of justice would be strengthened.

A survey has revealed that in the context of post–war reconstruction, Ukrainians fear corruption more than war.