The CCJE’s 24^th plenary meeting was held on 29 November – 1 December 2023 in Strasbourg.

Opinion No. 26 (2023) “Moving forward: the use of assistive technology in the judiciary” has been adopted. It examines the advantages and disadvantages of such use and emphasises the importance of maintaining the fundamental principles of the rule of law, focusing in particular on judicial independence and impartiality. The use of technology can support the work of judges and parties to court proceedings and promote speed and efficiency in the administration of justice.

The Opinion provides a durable set of principles for the future use of technology in judicial systems. The aim of these principles is to better secure effective and practical access to justice, while maintaining and enhancing judicial legitimacy and public confidence in the judiciary.

The CCJE’s thematic study on lessons learnt as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and their effect on the administration of justice has also been adopted. It highlights domestic practices in member States as regards the use of technology during the pandemic, changes in the law, provision of better technical equipment, organisation of courts activities, interaction between courts and other institutions within and outside of the judiciary, as well as interaction with court users and the society, and other pertinent issues.

Abridged report of the plenary meeting

Opinion No. 26 (2023) "Moving forward: the use of assistive technology in the judiciary”