(MENAFN- Jordan News Agency) Amman, Dec 16 (Petra) –– The first conference on governmental communication to enhance the rule of law and independence of the judiciary, organised by the Ministry of Justice and the Judicial Council with support from the European Union, kicked off on Saturday.
Minister of Justice Awad Abu Jarad said that the conference is based on the key pillars of His Majesty the King's Sixth Discussion Paper, and is in line with the Royal Committee for Developing the Judiciary and Enhancing the Rule of Law. Chief among these, he said, are the role of media institutions and professional associations in promoting the rule of law.
The Minister stressed the importance of consultation and transparency among the justice institutions to ensure effective participation and dialogue to lay down legislation related to justice and the law guaranteeing the right of access to information.
He urged civil society institutions to have a robust role in communication and to work with the local communities to spread a culture of awareness of the law to instill democratic values and the respect of the constitution, judicial rulings and independence, supremacy of the law, citizenship, freedoms and human rights.
Judicial Council representative, Judge Naji Zu'bi, said the rule of law is a cornerstone of good governance, which is key to promoting human development, pointing out that the independence of the judiciary requires that judges do what is required in accordance with the constitution and the country's law.
"The rule of law means that all people are subject to the law and no one is above the law. This requires measures that will consolidate the rule of law, promote equality and strengthen accountability," he said, stressing the importance of preserving individual freedoms, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, freedom of the press and worship and equal opportunity.
The Ambassador of the European Commission in Amman Andrea Fontana spoke about the importance of a participatory relationship in regard to justice, safeguarding the basic rights of citizens and providing information on legislation and services, and communication with civil society organisations.
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16/12/2017 - 05:03:58 PM
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