BELGRADE – On October 26, 2020, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Rule of Law Project, in cooperation with the Belgrade Higher Court, organized a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Information Point installed in the court’s lobby so that citizens can easily obtain all information necessary related to their interactions with the court, and have access to educational and informative materials.  

“Upholding the transparency of judicial institutions in a free and fair democratic society requires direct, two-way communication with citizens and the media,” said Mike de la Rossa, USAID Serbia Mission Director. “We are particularly pleased that the idea for installing an Information Point in the court’s lobby came directly from the court. We were glad that the idea for installing an Information Point in the court’s lobby came directly from the court. This represents one more important step in their overall efforts to be proactive in building transparency and improving access to justice for citizens.

The Information Point is the main orientation point for citizens and court parties seeking general information on court operations, working hours, and in navigating through the elaborate court building. USAID also partnered with the Court to prepare educational leaflets on various legal issues of public interest, as well as to make a video that  clearly explains the court’s structure, organization, units, locations, and services available to its users. USAID previously supported the installation of a similar Information Point in the Supreme Court of Cassation, and in a number of misdemeanor courts across Serbia.

Efforts such as these, which orient the focus of courts on citizens and their needs when navigating the judicial system, also significantly contribute to the implementation of the current Communication Strategy for the High Court Council and the Courts that USAID provided substantial technical assistance to create in 2018.

USAID’s four-year, $9.8 million Rule of Law project is supporting justice sector reforms that enhance the timely delivery of justice for Serbian citizens. The project works with the courts, public enforcement agents, and the State Attorney’s Office to increase judicial efficiency, transparency, and access to justice.