Authors

Kateryna Zyma¹;  ¹ Odesa Polytechnic National University, Ukraine

Discussion

The current jury system in Ukraine encounters fundamental challenges amidst the country’s socio-political shifts, amplified by the war-related demands for more robust governance frameworks. This study critically examines the shortcomings of Ukraine's jury system in light of international standards and best practices, with a focus on fostering transparency, procedural fairness, and public trust within the judiciary. The need for reform is paramount as the state orients itself toward systemic changes that could establish a foundation for a more democratic and accessible judiciary in post-war Ukraine. The purpose of this research is to identify the core issues within the Ukrainian jury system and propose a model that aligns with democratic ideals and enhances the operational efficacy of the judiciary.
The methodology employed a comparative analysis approach, examining the jury systems in Ukraine, the United States, and the United Kingdom, alongside qualitative surveys of Ukrainian legal experts and jurors. By evaluating the procedural structure, accessibility, and societal engagement in each system, the study aimed to uncover existing gaps in Ukraine’s jury processes and generate insights into viable pathways for reform. The comparative and retrospective design helped contextualize Ukraine’s specific challenges while drawing lessons from systems with well-established jury frameworks. Key issues identified include limited juror inclusivity due to socioeconomic constraints, insufficient procedural support, and inadequate legal protections to ensure impartiality and fairness in the jury process.
The research findings emphasize the necessity of reforming Ukraine's jury system on multiple levels. Analysis shows that, unlike established systems, the Ukrainian jury process lacks essential procedural mechanisms and resources, affecting juror preparedness, impartiality, and the judiciary’s overall integrity. Jurors in Ukraine face various barriers, from inconsistent legal training and financial limitations to challenges with procedural transparency. Notably, the Ukrainian jury system's current framework hampers its ability to act as an impartial body, potentially reducing public trust in the judiciary. To address these shortcomings, this study proposes a strategic model tailored to the Ukrainian context. The proposed reforms include improving juror accessibility through financial and logistical support, implementing procedural clarity through systematic training, and fostering inclusivity by broadening juror eligibility criteria.
In conclusion, this study highlights the critical need for systemic reform in Ukraine’s jury system, underscoring the role of juries as democratic institutions that enhance both judicial transparency and public trust. The proposed reform model provides a comprehensive pathway to bolster the operational and ethical standards of Ukraine’s judiciary, aligning it more closely with international norms and supporting