20 November 2024, Quetta - In a significant move to strengthen justice and accountability in judicial proceedings, a cutting-edge training program on judicial integrity and ethics has successfully concluded in Balochistan, bringing together judges and legal professionals to enhance their understanding of ethical standards and professionalism.

Funded by the European Union’s Deliver Justice Project and implemented by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in partnership with the Balochistan Judicial Academy, the program reinforced judicial accountability, independence, and integrity in the region. Participants explored the Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct, which serve as a cornerstone framework for maintaining the highest ethical standards in the judiciary.

The training introduced modern dimensions to judicial practices, including the responsible use of artificial intelligence and social media. These elements are vital in today’s digital age to uphold transparency and professionalism in the justice system.

Over the course of training, participants engaged in comprehensive sessions led by UNODC experts and resource persons. Topics covered included the core values of the Bangalore Principles, such as independence, impartiality, integrity, and equality, alongside professionalism and ethical responsibilities. The integration of tools like artificial intelligence in justice administration reflects the judiciary's evolving role in a technologically advanced world.

Interactive group activities and pre-and post-assessments enriched the learning experience, ensuring that participants could translate theory into practice. A dedicated session on social media usage explored the balance between accessibility and propriety in digital communications, while a thought-provoking video on AI in justice highlighted ethical decision-making for the future.

The program concluded with a certificate distribution, symbolizing a collective commitment to uphold judicial integrity. By fostering ethical conduct and professionalism, the training contributes to strengthening public trust and ensuring justice remains accessible for all, strengthening the judiciary’s role as a pillar of justice delivery in Balochistan.

As Balochistan’s judiciary steps forward with enhanced knowledge and tools, the region reaffirms its dedication to a justice system rooted in integrity and fairness, ensuring that citizens receive justice with dignity and equality.