Relations Between the Judiciary and the Other Two Powers of the State

 

An international conference titled “Relations Between the Judiciary and the Other Two Powers of the State” was held in Baku on October 14, 2025, at Baku Convention Center

On October 14, 2025, an international conference on the topic “Relations Between the Judiciary and the Other Two Powers of the State”, dedicated to the "Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty," was held at Baku Convention Center as part of the 67th General Assembly of the International Association of Judges (IAJ).

The conference was attended by nearly 300 delegates from 71 countries around the world, including judges, lawyers, government officials, representatives of international organizations, as well as renowned legal experts.

In his opening speech, Ramiz Rzayev, Chairman of the Azerbaijan Union of Judges, emphasized that one of the fundamental pillars of a democratic society is the rule of law. He noted that the principle of separation of powers is essential in forming a legal state. A fundamental element of the modern constitutional system is the division of state power into legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This principle prevents unipolarity and abuse of power, protects human and civil rights and freedoms, upholds the rule of law, and ensures democracy. It was stressed that according to the principle of separation of powers, the judiciary is an independent branch. In democratic and legal states courts protect rights, freedoms, and the core values of society. No branch of power can exist alone; they function in unity, ensuring division of authority and enabling balanced governance.

Inam Karimov, Chairman of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Judicial and Legal Council, noted in his speech that the separation of powers is, above all, a concept of institutions, and means the creation of a constitutional order in which powers are divided, balanced, and responsible. The judiciary, as one of the pillars of this structure, plays a crucial role. Its purpose is to implement the law fairly without fear or favor, while maintaining constructive dialogue based on mutual respect with the legislative and executive branches. It was emphasized that deep and continuous reforms have been carried out in the judicial system in our country under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, who is the constitutional guarantor of the independence of the judiciary. These reforms have strengthened the courts as guardians of the rule of law and the final arbiter of justice. He also pointed out that rapid development in technology, artificial intelligence, and social media presents both opportunities and risks for the judiciary. Climate change poses new and complex challenges for the judiciary. In this context, the International Association of Judges plays a very important role.

Latif Huseynov, judge of the European Court of Human Rights, emphasized the complex and topical nature of relations between the judiciary and other branches of power. He noted that separation of powers is not only about dividing functions but also about responsibility and balance. When dominance emerges between branches, it particularly undermines judicial independence. The role of the judiciary is to operate within cooperation and mutual understanding. It also involves dialogue and collaboration between branches.

Duro Sessa, President of the International Association of Judges, stated that judicial independence is a fundamental condition for ensuring human rights and freedoms. It was emphasized that judicial decisions must be based solely on the law and free from external influence. Matters such as pardons or other political pressures should not interfere in court decisions. The 2015 opinion of Consultative Council of European Judges offers significant perspectives on this issue. The document thoroughly reflects the judiciary’s responsibilities towards society and other state institutions.

Volter Barone, First Vice-President of the International Association of Judges and President of the Ibero-American Group, addressed judicial issues in Spanish-speaking countries. He noted that judicial independence and balanced cooperation face challenges in these countries. The importance of harmony among branches and protection of each branch’s limits was underlined.

Marcel Koassi, Vice-President of the International Association of Judges and President of the African Group, spoke about African experience. He pointed out that judicial accountability in African countries has become a clear example of financial independence through transparent approaches. Judicial reports contribute to parliamentary control mechanisms. Relations between the judiciary and other branches in Africa are rapidly developing, and multilateral cooperation should be prioritized.

Margaret Satterhwaite, UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, delivered a video message emphasizing three essential conditions for democracy and human rights protection: the rule of law, separation of powers, and respect for judicial independence. She stated that non-independent courts cannot withstand political influence, which complicates rights protection. Ensuring the structural and functional independence of the judiciary from political bodies is vital.

The conference continued with a question-and-answer session.

Additionally, an award ceremony was held where İnam Karimov (Chairman of the Supreme Court and Judicial-Legal Council), Farid Ahmadov (Minister of Justice), and Ramiz Rzayev (Chairman of the Azerbaijan Judges Union) were honored with the International Association of Judges’ honorary medal.

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