China to overhaul judicial system: communique

China is to reform its judicial system to better protect the rights and interests of the people, according to the communique issued after a key meeting of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.  [Special Report]

In a bid to build China under the rule of law, it is imperative to build a fair, efficient and authoritative socialist judicial system and safeguard the rights and legitimate interests of the people, according to the statement released after the third plenary session of the 18th CPC Central Committee closed on Tuesday.

Endeavors should be made to uphold the constitution and laws, deepen reforms in administrative law enforcement and ensure independence and fairness in prosecuting bodies and courts, as well as to improve judicial practice and protection of human rights, according to the communique.

Transparency is cornerstone of China's judicial system

China's top court has started posting its judgments online, marking a significant step in ensuring the public's right to know and preserving the rule of law.

Power must be exercised in the light to ensure that it is exercised correctly. Just as sunshine is the best antiseptic, transparency represents the best way to supervise power. Full story

New guideline can safeguard judicial independence

China's first guideline to prevent unjust or wrongful judgments will better safeguard judicial independence, build credibility for the judicial system and help to improve public trust.

The guideline, issued by the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee on Tuesday, said law enforcement personnel will have to bear life-long responsibility for their roles in wrongful judgments. Full story >>>