Judicial Well-Being Essential to Effective Justice System, Director-General Degfe Says

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)—Ensuring the safety, security, and overall well-being of judicial officers is vital to strengthening the justice system and upholding the rule of law, stated Ambassador Degfe Bula, Director-General of Federal Law and Justice Institute.

He made the remarks during a half-day symposium titled “Judicial Well-Being,” organized by the  Federal Law and Justice Institute to explore strategies for improving working conditions and support for judges.

Judges face significant health challenges stemming from their daily work environment, he added. 

According to him, prolonged sitting and sustained high-level concentration, alongside other rigorous demands of the bench, gradually contribute to physical, psychological, and mental health issues.

Ambassador Degfe Bula further emphasized that the judicial system serves as a foundational pillar for upholding the rule of law and safeguarding human dignity across society.

He noted that building an effective justice system requires more than individual commitment, it demands robust institutions, highly skilled personnel, and procedures backed by modern technology.

"Judges are not simply interpreters of the law; they are the pillars of public trust in the justice system," Ambassador Degfe stated.

He further underscored that the judiciary carries a unique burden compared to other professions, demanding an unwavering commitment to principle and the highest standards of moral integrity.

Ensuring the safety, security, and health of judicial officers remains a top strategic objective for the courts, stated Federal High Court Vice President Mitiku Mada.

Highlighting the physical and psychological pressures inherent in judicial work, particularly from prolonged sitting and sustained concentration,  Mitiku noted that a legal framework has already been established and implemented to provide medical services for judges and their families.

He added that various targeted measures are being introduced across court levels to mitigate these occupational hazards.

"At the Federal First Instance Court, for instance, a dedicated facility has been established to enable judges to engage in physical exercise and improve their overall well-being," Mitiku said, adding that similar wellness initiatives will be considered across other branches of the judiciary.