Open Justice and Technological Media as Effective application Tools (Review)

Abstract

This article addressed the issue of transparency and access to the administration of justice in Ecuador, highlighting the importance of judicial digitalization as a mechanism to guarantee the publicity and effectiveness of access to judicial proceedings, especially given the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its objective was to analyze how the Ecuadorian judiciary used technological means to implement the Open Justice policy, promoting transparency, participation, and collaboration between citizens and the judiciary. The article used a methodology based on the interpretation and normative analysis of the Constitution, the General Organic Code of Procedures, resolutions of the Judicial Council, and protocols issued by the National Court of Justice, in addition to the study of experiences and technological advances such as video hearings through digital platforms like Zoom. The results showed that the adoption of these tools allowed for the continuity of judicial activities in the context of the pandemic, facilitated public access to hearings, and reinforced the constitutional principles of publicity and oral hearings. Likewise, open justice achieved greater interaction with society and more direct dialogue through digital media, although it identified challenges related to the technological gap and digital exclusion. Finally, it was concluded that the use of technologies in the judicial system strengthened transparency, citizen participation, and institutional collaboration, consolidating an effective link between the judiciary and society. It is anticipated that these digital policies will continue to evolve to expand inclusion and access to justice in Ecuador.