All democracies have chosen the separation of careers. Here’s why Italy is an exception today
The article discusses the absence of career separation in Italy's judicial system compared to other liberal democracies.
The article highlights the judicial career structure in various liberal democracies, emphasizing the widespread practice of separating the roles of judges and public prosecutors in countries like Germany, Spain, and the United States. It points out that this separation is crucial for a functional and impartial judicial system, as it helps prevent conflicts of interest and promotes fairness in legal proceedings. In contrast, Italy is criticized for being an exception to this norm, raising concerns about the integrity of its judicial processes. Rinaldo Romanelli, the secretary of the Italian Criminal Lawyers' Association (Ucpi), argues that Italy's current system is an anomaly among liberal democracies, advocating for the separation of careers as a necessary reform. He expresses that the existing model, which combines the roles of judges and prosecutors, is not representative of a just and democratic society. The article underscores the potential risks of such a system, implying that it could align Italy with countries that lack robust democratic institutions, such as Turkey, Russia, and China. The implications of this discussion are significant for Italian society, as calls for judicial reform gain momentum. The need to align with democratic norms and enhance the credibility of the judicial system in Italy is increasingly recognized, especially in light of comparisons with nations known for their authoritarian regimes. The article serves as a call to action for policymakers to consider reforms that would strengthen the integrity and independence of the judiciary in Italy, helping to restore public confidence in legal institutions.