In a progressive step towards digital judicial transformation, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the global law firm, Dentons, have jointly released a comprehensive assessment. This report evaluates the readiness of 17 countries, including Uzbekistan, to introduce online courts for commercial disputes. The initiative was conducted under the aegis of the EBRD Shareholder Special Fund.
"Online courts are imperative in addressing the evolving justice requirements, ensuring efficient case resolutions, and enhancing the business environment," Veronica Bradautanu of EBRD commented.
Using a Maturity Level Assessment Tool, the research gauged countries on key dimensions of e-justice crucial for the development of online courts. While the broader scope encompassed governance, commercial dispute resolution, and more, Uzbekistan's results stood out.
Uzbekistan's digital judicial framework exhibits commendable standards, reflecting positively in many evaluated areas. A highlight was Uzbekistan achieving the highest score for overall justice system digitization. Influencing factors encompass the deployment of a unified Case Management System (CMS) for the judiciary and comprehensive strategies for digital transformation. Moreover, the accessibility of official information regarding the justice system and the extensive online publication of court judgments are noteworthy.
Shukhrat Yunusov, Partner at Dentons Uzbekistan, expressed, "Uzbekistan's proactive approach in hosting online and videoconference hearings for diverse cases, along with providing online tools for court fee calculations and payments, amplifies the benefits of digital transition in justice, encompassing improved accessibility, transparency, and user satisfaction."
Recommendations stemming from the assessment underline:
- Formulating clear online court legal frameworks.
- Enhancing IT infrastructures.
- Instituting effective change management policies, accentuating stakeholder involvement and user-centric design.
Yulia Shapovalova, Principal Counsel at the EBRD, emphasized that Uzbekistan's digital efforts, in harmony with streamlining dispute resolution processes, signify a promising future in online courts and justice modernization.
Comments (0)