The Judicial Education Institute of the Senior Courts in Belize is hosting a specialized two day training workshop on Judicial Ethics. The workshop, which is in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, launched today and will conclude tomorrow. This training is designed to equip judges, magistrates, registrars and judicial assistants with the knowledge and skills necessary to strengthen integrity in their daily work.
Today at the opening ceremony, the Chief Justice and the UN resident coordinator explained more about the importance of this workshop.
Louise Blenman, Chief Justice
"The judiciary of Belize has long recognized the need for structured training on judicial ethics and I'm grateful that with the support of the UNODC we're finally able to bring this to fruition."
"The judiciary of Belize firmly holds to the principles of fairness, integrity, humility, diligence, competence and efficiency and is guided by the need for proper judicial comportment. These principles support the rule of law and inspire public confidence in the administration of justice. The presence of so many judicial officers here today and I would add judicial assistants also underscore the need and the importance of this training and the need for us to maintain high ethical standards. It signals what I trust will be a strong and enduring partnership between the judiciary of Belize and the UNODC."
Raul Salazar, UN Resident Coordinator
"Corruption as we all know erodes trust in public institution, undermines democratic governments and weakens the very foundation for societies. a strong and independent judiciary is one of the most powerful safeguards we have against corruption and impunity. Judiciary integrity is therefore not only a professional obligation but also a cornerstone of public trust and social cohesion. By strengthening integrity in the justice system we also strengthen the capacity of societies to uphold the rule of law, safeguard fundamental freedoms and accelerate progress towards the sustainable development goals."
For the two days of the workshop, the High Court, Magistrate Court, and Family Court countrywide will not be conducting any legal business.
