As part of our international work, the Judges Association of New Zealand (JANZ) has contributed to Covid-19 research about our judicial experience during the Covid-19 crisis. The Bolch Judicial Institute has reminded us that this pandemic has “largely intensified problems that courts were already facing”. Around the world, judges are now making tough decisions about the safe reopening of courts, and creating new and better ways of dispensing justice.
As American Justice Bridget Mary McCormack said in a recent video conference, “This is not necessarily the disruption we wanted, but I think it’s the disruption we needed.” I thought at the time it sounded like Bridget and Aida Malosi had been talking!
The Bolch Judicial Institute has collated a Covid-19 judicial resource guide for judges.
The guide is constantly updated and, while American-centric, it does draw upon international experience from all IAJ members.
JANZ maintains a watching brief on pandemic best practice and will continue with international engagement as we share our direction with others.