Association of Criminal Lawyers slams wiretapping case: 'Country's democratic function is harmed'

Greece's Association of Criminal Lawyers and Litigators has issued a sharp rebuke regarding the nation's wiretapping scandal, asserting that it severely damages the fundamental workings of democracy and the established institutional order. The association expressed profound concern over the developments, emphasizing that the issue strikes at the heart of democratic principles.

In a statement, the association declared, "The surveillance affair directly strikes the hard core of democratic functioning and institutional order. When fundamental constitutional rights are jeopardized, and when questions remain about the legality and purpose of widespread surveillance, the judicial investigation must be exhaustive, transparent, and unimpeachable."

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The surveillance affair directly strikes the hard core of democratic functioning and institutional order. When fundamental constitutional rights are jeopardized, and when questions remain about the legality and purpose of widespread surveillance, the judicial investigation must be exhaustive, transparent, and unimpeachable.

The group highlighted that public criticism is a vital component of democracy, especially in matters of significant public interest. They argued that even sharp criticism of judicial and prosecutorial decisions does not challenge the institution of justice but serves as a legitimate expression of democratic oversight. Citing the European Court of Human Rights, they noted that the actions of judicial officials are subject to rigorous public scrutiny, and freedom of expression covers even harsh criticism concerning public affairs.

The association further warned that when the state fails to provide convincing answers about who orchestrated the extensive surveillance network, how it was done, and for what purposes, it leaves citizens and state structures vulnerable to future arbitrary actions. They stressed that protecting liberal democracy requires the active functioning of constitutional checks and balances, complete transparency, and independent institutional control at all levels. The group concluded that trust in the judiciary is not built on silence or dogmatic authority.

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The public criticism is a constituent element of Democracy. And in cases of major public interest, the exercise of even sharp criticism towards judicial and prosecutorial decisions does not constitute a challenge to the institution of Justice, but a legitimate and necessary expression of democratic control.