International Standards for the Independence of the Judiciary

This briefing paper sets out international standards for judicial independence and highlights the essential functions of an independent judiciary in a constitutional democracy. Drawing on a combination of both hard and soft sources of international law, the paper reveals a definition of judicial independence that can be met in various legal and constitutional contexts, while allowing courts to protect human rights, secure the rule of law, and ensure the principles of a constitutional democracy. Keywords: Judicial/ Judiciary, Independence of the Judiciary. Example.