Dear Judges, Prosecutors, and Citizens of Romania,
We, members of the informal group “Odbrana struke” (Defense of the Profession) composed of judges and prosecutors from the Republic of Serbia who stand for the independence and integrity of the judiciary – extend to you our deepest solidarity and support in your current struggle for justice, transparency, and the rule of law.
Over the past few days, we express our deep solidarity with Romanian magistrates, prosecutors, journalists, civil society activists, and citizens who have courageously stood up against systemic dysfunction, political interference, and corruption within the justice system. We recognize the challenges you face and stand united in support of your efforts to uphold judicial independence and the Rule of law.
Similarly, in Serbia, our informal group “Odbranimo struku” is engaged in the same struggle to defend the independence and autonomy of judicial officeholders. We face unprecedented attacks on judicial independence, high-level corruption, and attempts to undermine the rule of law, and our citizens have been protesting for over a year, demanding transparency, accountability, and respect for justice.
In your struggle, we stand in solidarity, sharing the same commitment to defend judicial independence, uphold truth and integrity, confront corruption without fear, and ensure that justice serves all citizens and that no one is above the law. Your protests – bringing together hundreds of magistrates and tens of thousands of citizens – and the widespread calls for structural change, reflect not only national concern but a wider European imperative: that justice systems must be resistant to political capture, must protect those who speak truth to power, and must serve the people with independence and dignity.
We stand with you in demanding:
- meaningful and transparent reform of justice laws, so that independence of judges and prosecutors is genuinely protected;
- accountability for those who abuse their positions or undermine the public trust;
- a justice system that serves the public interest and protects human rights, rather than the interests of the powerful;
- and an active civic space where professionals, media, and citizens can collaborate to strengthen the rule of law.
Your courage in speaking out, and the solidarity demonstrated by your fellow citizens, are inspiring examples of how democratic societies can and must respond when core institutions are perceived to be at risk. Your fight is not isolated; it reverberates with similar struggles for judicial integrity across Europe and beyond.
We firmly believe that only by standing united – judges, prosecutors, civil society, and citizens alike – can we ensure justice for all. In a free society, the role of the judge is indispensable, and courageously exposing corruption is not only a duty, but a cornerstone of the rule of law. Together, through vigilance and solidarity, we can protect the integrity of our institutions and safeguard the rights of every citizen.
To all judges, prosecutors and citizens of Romania – we salute your courage, we affirm our support for your goals, and we join you in spirit and principle in the quest for a justice system that is fair, independent, and worthy of the trust of all people.
With respect and solidarity,
Judges and Prosecutors of the Republic of Serbia — Group Odbrana struke
Belgrade, 19 December 2025
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