President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasizes that judges must be objective, independent and honest in their daily work. He stated this during the ceremony of taking oath by judges appointed to office.
"As of today, each of you is the face of the judiciary. And its image depends only on you. I believe that you will be worthy of the high title of judge. You will always remember that you administer justice not on behalf of individual interests, but on behalf of Ukraine," the President said.
"Independence, objectivity, honesty and integrity, adherence to ethical standards, equal treatment of all parties to the trial, competence and diligence - I believe that these Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct will be the main and integral conditions of your daily very important, difficult work," Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.
The President noted that in the professional activity each of those present went through a difficult path, yet no less difficult challenge is ahead - restoring public confidence in the judiciary, ensuring the right of everyone to a fair trial in accordance with European and international standards.
"It is important to realize that in most cases, the court not only resolves the legal dispute, but also decides on the future of the person. Therefore, society and the state expect that your every decision will be balanced, fair and legal. I am sure that you will be able to change the most important thing - the attitude of society, the attitude of citizens to the word "judge". And it will always evoke only two emotions in people - trust and respect,” the Head of State said.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy called today an important day for the judicial system of Ukraine, as courts that have been unable to work properly for a long time due to the lack of judges are resuming their work. He reminded that for the first time since 2016, more than 200 new judges will administer justice in local general courts.
"These are young successful people who have modern views, but at the same time - a lot of professional experience. You have come a long, difficult way to this day," the President said.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy wished the judges that the words of the oath were not said today for the first and last time.
"Let these words be the beginning of your every day. Remember them every time you make a decision. Remember them every time someone offers to turn a blind eye to the law and tries to dazzle you with images of Benjamin Franklin," the President summed up, congratulating the judges and wishing each of them great professional achievements.
