62st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council
Interactive Dialogue with SR on judges and lawyers
Statement delivered by H.E Ambassador Riia Salsa-Audiffren
on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden
25 June 2026
Mr President,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States. We thank the Special Rapporteur for her comprehensive report, which provides a valuable basis for today’s discussion and offers practical guidance to States.
A strong, independent judiciary is essential to any democratic society governed by the rule of law. We emphasize the importance of robust and independent institutional frameworks for judicial selection and appointment. They are key to safeguarding public trust and effectively protecting the rights to a fair trial, equality before the law, and access to justice for all.
Although judicial systems differ globally, certain core principles must guide the selection and appointment of judges. We strongly support merit as the central criterion, complemented by objective, pre-established criteria set out in law. Integrity screening, safeguards for impartiality, and promoting diversity are essential to ensure the judiciary reflects the society it serves.
We fully share the Special Rapporteur’s view that strong safeguards against undue influence are essential in judicial appointments and functions. We also stress the importance of timely appointments and opportunities for civil society participation, as these contribute to the transparency and legitimacy of the process.
Madam Special Rapporteur, how can States best balance the need for public transparency in judicial appointments with the protection of candidate’s right to privacy?
Thank you!