The Greek Judges and Prosecutors Association (Ένωση Δικαστών και Εισαγγελέων Ελλάδος) has voiced strong opposition to the new Code of Civil Procedure proposed by the Ministry of Justice. According to the Association, the draft bill “creates an uncontrolled situation in the justice system” and warns that “the entire effort will end in a fiasco at the expense of citizens seeking justice in the courts.”

The Association has called for an emergency board meeting the day after tomorrow to address the contents of what it describes as a “disastrous” bill.

In its statement, the Association notes:

“The recent presentation of the draft Code of Civil Procedure for public consultation creates an uncontrolled situation in the justice system. Despite commitments made by the Ministry’s leadership to us, it insists on its original plan, disregarding the factors we highlighted. The Ministry focuses solely on fast-track procedures rather than substantive judicial review. This initiative aims to give the impression abroad of a supposed acceleration of proceedings, without providing the material or human resources needed. This will ultimately end in a fiasco to the detriment of citizens turning to the courts. The excessive caseloads assigned to judges, at levels no longer manageable, degrade the quality of judicial work and effectively abolish the meaningful delivery of justice.”

The Association also raised these concerns during the European Association of Judges’ session in Yerevan on May 9. The European body shared these concerns, stating:

“Legal deadlines must be set so that they are realistically achievable, taking into account available resources and procedural rules. Otherwise, courts are held responsible for situations beyond their control. This undermines public trust in justice. The proposed amendments by the Minister of Justice pose an unwarranted threat to judges, endangering their independence and ultimately harming public confidence in justice and its effective accountability.”

The European Association further called on:

“Greek authorities to cease disciplinary proceedings based on the substance of judicial decisions and to reconsider the proposed changes to deadlines in the Code of Civil Procedure and related disciplinary provisions submitted by the Minister of Justice.”

The Association accuses the Ministry of introducing a bill “destructive to the administration of justice in our country” during the judicial holiday period, assuming there will be no reactions.

An emergency board meeting will be held the day after tomorrow to decide on next steps.