In a commemorative speech marking the 50th anniversary of the trade union structure at a ceremony held at the Supreme Court of Justice in Lisbon, the president of ASJP presented a dual portrait of the sector: pride in the progress made since April 25, 1974, and concern over resource shortages and the need for structural reforms.
“There is no reform of justice without purpose, idea, or spirit of reform,” stated Nuno Matos, emphasizing that improving the system requires a “willingness to invest” by the political powers.
ASJP highlighted key deficiencies, pointing to the malfunctioning of IT systems, the “advanced state of deterioration” of several court buildings, and notably, the magistrates’ demotivation and excessive workload.
The association, currently representing over 95% of judicial magistrates, warned of “unmotivated judges with health problems,” a result of “excessive workload,” lack of resources, and an “apparent disregard for their career advancement.”
The speech also criticized the stagnation of the new court management paradigm, noting the lack of administrative and financial autonomy of the Superior Council of the Judiciary and district courts as a barrier to efficiency.
Despite presenting a list of issues, the union acknowledged the current Ministry of Justice’s efforts in some areas, citing positive changes to the status of judicial officials, recruitment of new judges, and investment in administrative and tax jurisdiction.
However, Nuno Matos cautioned, “much remains to be done,” with progress dependent on “political will and courage.”
Rejecting the image of a “technical and distant” judge, ASJP advocated for a judiciary attentive to the complexity of reality and the humanity of specific cases, reaffirming the association’s commitment to judicial independence and the defense of the rule of law both nationally and internationally.
“ASJP is an institution independent of any powers and interests, politically and ideologically neutral,” reiterated the union leader, concluding that in a scenario of “serious difficulties,” defending the independence of the courts remains crucial to avoid statutory setbacks.
