Dear colleagues,
On behalf of the Cyprus Judges’ Association, I warmly welcome you as new members of the Judiciary. As President of the Judges’ Association, it is a privilege to meet with you personally today and congratulate you on your appointment. I am certain that the other members of the Executive Committee feel the same. By the mandate of the Judicial Council, you are now part of the community of Cyprus judges, a community committed to uphold the principles of independence, impartiality and integrity of justice. Your experience and expertise as lawyers will undoubtedly enrich our collective knowledge and bring new ideas to advance our drive to progress.
I invite you to always keep in mind that an important attribute for a judge is being polite toward lawyers and the public. According to the great German playwriter Bertold Brecht “respect is for those who deserve it, not for those who demand it”.In the discharge of our duties, we must inspire and not demand respect. Arrogance, that sometimes characterises people in authority, has no place in our judicial role. Respect toward the bench can only be earned by being polite, demonstrating impartiality and commitment in the discharge of our duties.
As you may know, the Judges’ Association is not a trade union. It’s a body dedicated to supporting and promoting co-operation, professional development and exchange of ideas among judges. We strive to create an environment where every member of the Association can grow, learn from one another and contribute to the administration of justice and the attainment of the ultimate purpose of the Association which is none other than safeguarding the independence of justice.
As you adjust to your new role, I invite you to reach out to the Judges’ Association with any problem you might be facing in the discharge of your duties. I also encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities made available to you through our Association such as our group life assurance cover and the participation in the various social and other events organised by the Association that are designed to improve relations between judges and facilitate the exchange of ideas on various subjects relevant to the administration and independence of justice.
Your contribution and active involvement at our meetings and committees will be greatly appreciated as we work together to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Do not hesitate to contact me or any other member of the Executive Committee with any questions you may have or if you need any assistance. We are here to support you throughout your journey as members of the Judiciary.
Once again, congratulations on your appointment and I look forward to getting to know each of you better in our upcoming events. I am certain that together we will continue to uphold the founding principles of the Association, which are defending judicial independence and contributing to the improvement of our legal system.
Nicosia, 5 July 2023
With warmest regards,
Alexandros A. Panayiotou
President of the Cyprus Judges’ Association