Judicial Autonomy Under Pressure: A Critical Analysis of Internal Independence in Administrative Courts

Abstract This study presents a holistic examination of internal judicial independence within Ukraine’s administrative courts amidst ongoing judicial reform challenges. Through an analysis of European Court of Human Rights jurisprudence and domestic administrative justice practices, the research investigates various forms of influence on judicial independence, categorizing them through a four-dimensional framework: manifestations, actors, implementation methods, and frequency patterns. The investigation particularly focuses on systemic threats to judicial autonomy, including unofficial relationships among judges and hierarchical oversight practices. Drawing from High Council of Justice appeals, the research identifies key patterns of improper influence and proposes corresponding preventive measures. The findings emphasize the necessity for an integrated approach to strengthening judicial independence within Ukraine’s reform context, encompassing both legislative improvements and institutional safeguards. The study also establishes a clear correlation between judges’ internal independence and public trust in Ukraine’s judicial system.