In the face of structural corruption affecting state institutions in Latin America, independent judiciaries are key actors in safeguarding citizens’ rights and freedoms and protecting democratic regimes. Judges affected by corruption are unable to check the abusive exercise of power and face significant challenges in fulfilling their role of protecting fundamental rights and serving as a counterbalance within a rule of law framework. Despite periods of political instability and authoritarianism that have undermined judicial independence in the region, efforts have also been made to strengthen transparency and integrity within the justice system.

One of our main areas of focus is monitoring and analyzing the selection and appointment processes of high court judges, with the goal of promoting transparency, publicity, equal opportunities, impartiality, and meritocracy in these processes. In this regard, DPLF has promoted the creation of International Observation Missions (MIOs) to oversee the selection of judicial bodies and courts in countries such as Honduras, Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, Mexico, and El Salvador, evaluating the transparency and integrity of these processes and proposing improvements based on international standards.

We work closely with national and international civil society to promote a culture of transparency and accountability within the judiciary. As part of our work, we also highlight the situation of judicial officers whose independence is under attack, advocating for their ability to perform their duties independently, effectively, and without undue interference. In addition, we collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure the recognition and respect of judges’ right to freedom of expression, an essential component in the fight against judicial corruption, creating an environment where they can address judicial matters and public interest issues without censorship or fear of reprisals.

Through knowledge generation, the exchange of experiences and best practices, awareness campaigns, and advocacy activities, we aim to raise awareness of the importance of an independent judiciary and foster a culture of transparency and accountability within Latin America’s justice systems.