The use of social networks by judges: a comparative overview
The SSM invites you to participate in the webinar “The use of social networks by judges: a comparative look” organised by the SSM in collaboration with IOJT and EJTN.
The Webinar will be held, in English, on 19 December 2023 from 15:00 to 18:00 on the TEAMS Platform SSM
Click on the link To join the event
- – Social media has become an important part of the social life of many people and communities, changing the way in which information about them is collected, communicated and disseminated.
Given the nature of judicial office and the vital importance of public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the courts, the use of social media by judges, both individually and collectively, raises specific questions and ethical risks that should be addressed.
- – Although judges, like other citizens, are entitled to freedom of expression, belief, association and assembly, they should always conduct themselves in such a manner as to preserve the dignity of their office and the impartiality and independence of the judiciary.
The way an individual judge uses social media may have an impact on the public perception of all judges and confidence in judicial systems generally.
The topic of the use of social media by judges is complex. On the one hand, particular instances of judges using social media have led to situations where those judges have been perceived to be biased or subject to inappropriate outside influences. On the other hand, social media can create opportunities to spread the reach of judges’ expertise, increase the public’s understanding of the law, and foster an environment of open justice and closeness to the communities that judges serve. Additionally, there have been instances where social media has served as a platform for online abuse or harassment of judges.
- – A major UNODC project led to the drafting of non-binding Guidelines on the use of social media by judges.
Discussion Guide: The Use of Social Media by Judges, developed by the Global Judicial Integrity Network of UNODC
Taking these guidelines as a starting point, the seminar aims to compare how the issue is being addressed in some EU countries, with a look at the United States.
The event is organised by the Scuola Superiore della Magistratura Italiana in cooperation with IOJT and EJTN.