publications_unodc_commentary-e

apprehension of bias, 56abuse of contempt powers, 59bias or prejudice, 57-60conduct to be avoided, 62-65conflict of interest, 67-69correspondence with litigants, 73duty to maintain fine balance, 61ex parte communications, 64frequent recusals, 66independence a necessary condition, 51judge in one’s own cause, 78media, relations with, 74-76perceptions, 53, 55previous political affiliation, relevance of, 88public statements, 65, 71-72reasonable observer, 77requirements of, 53religion, etc., relevance of, 89see also disqualificationimplementation, procedures for, 220improper statement, 71improprietyinappropriate contacts, 113test for, 111-112inappropriate connections and influence, examples of, 38independenceact irrespective of popular acclaim or criticism, 28attempt to influence judge, 29attempt to undermine judicial independence, 43complete isolation neither possible nor beneficial, 31conditions for judicial independence, 26contact with community necessary, 32-34distinguished from impartiality, 24efficiency and productivity, 42high standard of judicial conduct, 45-50inappropriate connections, 38independent of other judges, 39-41individual and institutional, 23judge not beholden to government, 25not privilege, but responsibility of judge, 22outside influences, 27public awareness of judicial independence, 44public perception of judicial independence, 37separation of powers or functions, 36trust of society essential, 35undue influence, 30169