Warsaw, 31 Januar 2025
On 31 January, an informal meeting of EU justice ministers (JHA) took place in Warsaw. The ministers discussed challenges related to the rule of law and the principle of mutual trust in cooperation between Member States. They also addressed the consequences of Russia’s war crimes committed in Ukraine.
The meeting was chaired by Minister Adam Bodnar. The European Commission was represented by Director General for Justice and Consumers Ana Gallego Torres.
Challenges regarding the rule of law and its impact on mutual cooperation between Member States
During the informal meeting, EU justice ministers highlighted the importance of the rule of law for judicial cooperation within the European Union. Poland’s Minister of Justice, Adam Bodnar, emphasised the need for all Member States to uphold fundamental rights and the rule of law, as these values underpin the entire EU.
Building mutual trust between Member States begins with ensuring the proper functioning of one’s own system. The rule of law and respect for fundamental rights are essential conditions for effective cooperation between countries and addressing shared challenges and threats.
Adam Bodnar, Minister of Justice
Drawing on their experiences, justice ministers discussed ways to strengthen the principle of mutual trust within the EU. Ensuring that all Member States uphold democratic standards is crucial to guaranteeing legal security for all citizens and equal access to justice across the Union.
Today’s debate of justice ministers sought to identify ways to deepen mutual cooperation while respecting the rulings of the Court of Justice of the European Union and maintaining the highest standards of fundamental rights protection. Both Polish and European experiences in recent years have shown the necessity of cooperation to counter threats to the rule of law and citizens’ rights.
The future of the justice system
Opportunities and challenges facing judicial cooperation within the EU were another key topic of discussion during the informal meeting. The ministers expressed support for the priorities of the Polish presidency and agreed that creating legislation focused on individuals, especially victims of crime, is key to effective policies in this area.
The ministers also discussed the potential of Member States to identify and address common national challenges, with the goal of strengthening the sense of justice and fairness within the EU.
Today’s meeting aimed to explore new directions for building a more just and secure Europe. It is essential to ensure that everyone has easy access to justice that is transparent, comprehensible, and efficient. The justice ministers agreed on the importance of building trust in institutions by involving citizens in shaping the legal system.
Family photo of justice ministers at the informal JHA in Warsaw, day 2 © Chancellery of the Prime Minister/ PAP S.A.
Consequences of Russia’s war crimes committed in Ukraine
The European Union plays a fundamental role in ensuring accountability for international crimes committed in Ukraine. The ministers discussed the need for continued action to effectively document crimes in Ukraine and enhance cooperation between countries in this area. They also explored potential methods of collaboration between national authorities and international judicial bodies. Best practices in implementing the directive on violations related to sanctions against Russia were also discussed.
“Poland has a rich history in international criminal law. Today, as we draw closer to establishing a Special Tribunal to prosecute the crime of aggression, we considered ways to improve methods of documenting and prosecuting such acts, particularly in the context of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine” – concluded Minister Bodnar.
Another key aspect of the discussion was support for those affected by the war who are currently residing in EU Member States. The ministers debated ways to improve existing mechanisms to provide them with uniform and effective legal and psychological support.
The next formal JHA Council meeting is scheduled for 6–7 March 2025 in Brussels:
See – event page: Informal JHA Council 30-31 January, 2025