Shining a Light on the Bench: Judge Calls for Open Book Policy on Judicial Salaries and Performance

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Judges who are members of the Indonesian Judges Solidarity (SHI) visited the Supreme Court to take part in an audience regarding improving the welfare of judges (MI/Usman Iskandar)

Indonesian Judges SOLIDARITAS (SHI) asks the public to monitor the performance of judges in Indonesia. SHI spokesperson Isna Latifa said that currently the party is demanding an increase in salaries and allowances which have not increased for 12 years. However, apart from that, he also wants the public to monitor the performance of judges in court.

“We also want prosperity, but we also want to maintain our integrity, right? Apart from that, we want the community to play an active role in supervising us so that our performance is in line with what we receive,” said Isna in Jakarta, Tuesday (8/10 ).

Therefore, Isna admitted that his party did not want to stop at just demanding a salary increase. He admitted that he would meet with the government and civil society organizations so that the justice system in Indonesia could be independent and transparent.

Also read: DPR asks for mass leave of judges to end

“This movement will be very long because our dream of creating an independent judiciary has not yet been realized. We need many parties to be active together to make that happen. We need independence and a judicial body,” he said.

Previously, Indonesian Judges Solidarity (SHI) said that thousands of judges in courts throughout Indonesia would go on collective leave for five days from 7 to 11 October 2024. They demanded an increase in salaries and allowances which had not increased in the last 12 years.

SHI also demands the ratification of the Bill on the Position of Judges which seeks to create a strong and independent legal basis for the profession of Judge, which is regulated comprehensively through the Law on the Position of Judges. This is important to guarantee the position and authority of the judge’s profession in the eyes of the law.

Second, ratification of the Contempt of Court Bill which regulates protection for judges from all forms of contempt of court. This regulation is very necessary to ensure that the judicial process runs without intervention, threats or pressure from any party.

Third, Government regulations regarding Judge Security Guarantees which guarantee the safety of judges in carrying out their duties, including physical and psychological protection from potential abusers
threats or attacks that could occur during or after carrying out judicial duties. (P-5)

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Indonesian Judges Demand Fair Compensation and Public Oversight

In a bold move, the Indonesian Judges Solidarity (SHI) has taken a stand to demand better working conditions and compensation for judges in the country. According to recent reports, over 1,700 judges are planning to stage an unofficial strike, citing stagnant salaries that have not been increased for 12 years [[2]]. The movement, led by SHI spokesperson Isna Latifa, is not only pushing for a salary increase but also advocating for public oversight of judges’ performance in court.

This development comes as no surprise, given the historical context of the Indonesian judiciary system. In the past, judges have gone on strike to protest various issues, including salary disparities [[3]]. However, the current movement takes a unique approach by inviting the public to monitor judges’ performance, which demonstrates a willingness to promote transparency and accountability.

The Indonesian government has been working to reform the judicial system, with a focus on judicial integrity. In fact, the Judicial Reform Phase 2 (2010-2035) places special emphasis on the reform of the judicial system, including the use of new technologies to revitalize the Supreme Court’s oversight and information system [[1]]. By demanding public oversight, SHI is pushing for a more inclusive and participatory approach to ensuring judicial integrity.

SHI’s request for public monitoring is a laudable initiative, as it acknowledges the importance of public trust in the judiciary system. By engaging the public in the monitoring process, judges can demonstrate their commitment to transparency and accountability, which is essential for building confidence in the justice system.

The Supreme Court’s willingness to host a meeting with Indonesian judges to discuss their demands is a positive step towards addressing these concerns [[2]]. This opens up a dialogue between the judges, the government, and the public, which can lead to meaningful reforms and improved working conditions for judges.

the Indonesian Judges Solidarity’s demands for fair compensation and public oversight are timely and relevant. By promoting transparency and accountability, the judiciary system can regain public trust and ensure the delivery of justice in a fair and impartial manner.