Roundtable “Strengthening the psychological safety of judges and its impact on access to justice”

19. 09. 2025

On Thursday, 18 September 2025, the National Institute of Justice hosted the roundtable “Strengthening the psychological safety of judges and its impact on access to justice”. The event brought together members of the Superior Council of Magistracy, judges, court presidents, psychologists, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Health, and the Superior Council of Magistracy of Romania.

The main objectives of the discussions were to identify effective methods of psychological assessment for both candidates for the position of judge and judges in office, to reduce the consequences of overwork on the quality of justice, and to enhance the psychological resilience of magistrates in crisis situations. In addition, the roundtable aimed to design a mechanism of psychological support for all court staff.

The agenda included topics such as the usefulness and objectivity of psychological assessments, ways to optimize the process, the management of results, and the provision of specialized support. The Romanian experience was examined, and the necessary actions were outlined to ensure a proper psychological climate within the judicial system, considering that judicial well-being is essential for the quality of justice.

The roundtable was organized by the Superior Council of Magistracy in partnership with the National Institute of Justice and Cooperazione Internazionale Sud Sud (CISS).