Judges of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Republic of Moldova (SCJ) came together for a focused workshop aimed at strengthening the quality of judicial reasoning in line with European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) standards.

The workshop was led by an international consultant, who presented an extensive overview of European Court leading cases illustrating how domestic courts can ensure compliance with the right to a fair trial under Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

Discussions moved from general principles of judicial reasoning — such as the sufficiency and clarity of reasons — to the specific reasoning required in cases involving interferences with other Convention rights, including the right to private life, freedom of religion, freedom of expression, and freedom of association. They also addressed reasoning in discrimination cases and in matters concerning the prohibition of torture.

“Clear, coherent, and well-founded judicial reasoning is essential for guaranteeing the right to a fair trial, ensuring transparency, and fostering public confidence in the judiciary,” stated Ms Stela Procopciuc, Acting President of the SCJ, in her opening remarks of the workshop. She noted that the workshop provides a platform for Supreme Court justices to work together to apply these standards consistently in their decisions, thereby strengthening the protection of citizens’ rights and the rule of law.

This activity was implemented within the framework of the Council of Europe Project “Strengthening the Institutional Capacity of the Supreme Court of Justice”. The project supports the implementation of the Supreme Court’s reform and aims to enhance its capacity to deliver justice in line with European standards by improving the quality and consistency of judicial decisions and promoting the uniform application of the law.