Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Judges are expected to function during crises such as conflicts and disasters, upholding the rule of law. Despite this role, their well-being has historically received little attention, though they face pressures similar to those affecting the communities they serve.
Hon. Rangajeeva Wimalasena, Judge of the National and Supreme Courts of Papua New Guinea, described judicial well-being as a concept deeper than personal comfort. He explained that judges regularly deal with traumatic evidence, heavy caseloads, and decisions with profound impacts on people’s lives, all while being expected to remain 'superhuman.'
Judge Wimalasena warned that neglecting judicial well-being can harm the quality of justice delivered. He said the emotional burden judges carry has traditionally been a taboo topic, despite its importance to fair and effective judicial outcomes.
The Nauru Declaration on Judicial Well-being, developed through the UN Office on Drugs and Crime in 2024, encourages institutions and governments worldwide to recognize and support judges' well-being. This initiative acknowledges that pressures can escalate in countries facing conflict, political violence, or environmental disasters, requiring tailored approaches to judicial support.
Emphasizing judicial well-being is seen as essential for maintaining judicial integrity and the effective administration of justice globally.