site.btaAssociation of Prosecutors Voices "Serious Concern" over Competency Model Proposed by Justice Ministry

The Association of Prosecutors in Bulgaria Thursday voiced "serious concern" over a competency model for top judicial appointments, unveiled earlier the same day by the Justice Ministry. More specifically, they argue that the way the model was presented "creates the impression of a formally conducted consultation, without sufficient clarity as to whether and how the professional proposals made were actually considered and taken into account".

According to the Association of Prosecutors, the proposed model does not provide sufficient guarantees of objectivity. Instead of a clear and verifiable methodology, the document relies on "indicative criteria" and "sample indicators", without clearly defined weights, thresholds, or mechanisms to prevent subjectivity.

The Association insists that the minutes from the consultation should be made public; that a full record of all submitted opinions and proposals should be made available; that it be made publicly clear which recommendations have been accepted and which rejected.

Also, they argue that the competence standards for key positions - especially for the Prosecutor General - should be revised "with genuine participation from the professional community"; and that a truly verifiable methodology be developed, rather than a framework of general formulations and indicative criteria.

According to the Justice Ministry, the competency model is part of an initiative launched by Justice Minister Andrey Yankulov with the purpose of establishing clear standards for exercising his constitutional power to nominate candidates for top judicial positions. It also said that the model was developed by his adviser Iva Pushkarova and incorporates official opinions from professional judicial associations and other organizations.

The initiative, first announced in March, seeks to introduce transparent criteria for nominations to key posts within the judiciary. Following an expert discussion at the ministry, participants agreed on the need for clearer and more objective standards, emphasizing that a well-structured nomination process could reduce the risk of political interference and help maintain balance between the branches of power.

According to the ministry, the publication of the model is intended to increase transparency and predictability in the nomination process, while encouraging informed public debate on the qualifications required for senior judicial roles. The broader goal is to strengthen public trust in both the selection procedures and the judicial institutions themselves.

The competency model outlines four main areas essential for judicial leadership: professional legal expertise, managerial skills, leadership abilities, and ethical qualities. It emphasizes integrity, independence, strategic vision, and effective institutional management, while also providing concrete indicators to assess candidates’ qualifications. The model distinguishes between different leadership levels within the judiciary, with higher positions requiring broader strategic and public accountability.

While the framework is non-binding, it serves as a practical guide for both candidates preparing their proposals and the Supreme Judicial Council of Bulgaria when evaluating nominations.