Conceptualizing judicial transparency and public trust - Frameworks for community-centered justice

Judicial transparency and public trust represent the foundations of a functional rule of law and democratic governance. Transparency encompasses institutional openness, procedural clarity, and the public perception of fairness, forming the basis for accountability, equitable justice, and participatory governance. Despite growing global efforts, achieving substantive transparency remains a significant challenge for judicial systems. This paper examines the theoretical underpinnings of judicial transparency and trust, presenting a universal framework for integrating these principles into justice systems. Through a comparative analysis of global case studies, it identifies applicable strategies—including the use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain—to improve transparency, enhance inclusivity, and address systemic inequalities. The findings show that transparent practices and participatory mechanisms strengthen public trust and inclusivity, offering practical guidance for future reforms.