Scott Bales concludes his mandate at the Judicial Vetting Commission

The Judicial Vetting Commission announces that the mandate of international member Scott Bales will conclude on 31 December 2025, following his decision to withdraw from the Commission due to retirement. The request for termination of the mandate has been submitted to Parliament and will be reviewed in accordance with applicable legal provisions.

During this transition period, the Commission expresses its deep appreciation for the pivotal role Scott Bales has played in strengthening the organizational and operational framework of the Commission and in developing the standards applied to the external evaluation of judges in the Republic of Moldova. The Commission’s activities will continue in accordance with institutional procedures, without affecting ongoing evaluations.

On the occasion of the announcement of his mandate’s conclusion, the Commission’s Chair, Andrei Bivol, conveyed the following message: “Scott’s withdrawal marks not only an important moment for him personally but also acknowledges the profound impact he has had on the Commission. He has led with integrity, listened attentively, encouraged others, and provided stability during challenging periods. His most valuable legacy lies in the people he has mentored and the professional standards he has established. We thank him for his dedication and commitment and wish him a journey filled with rewarding experiences ahead.”

In his message to the Commission team, Scott Bales noted that he will follow with interest the Commission’s future work and the Republic of Moldova’s path toward European Union accession. He added that he looks forward to returning to Moldova, as he greatly admires the country and its people.

Scott Bales, former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Arizona (USA), served as a member and Chair of the Judicial Vetting Commission starting in June 2023. With forty years’ experience in the legal field, he laid the foundations for the Commission’s organizational and operational regulations. During his leadership, the Commission has finalized over 100 cases evaluating judges and judicial and Superior Council of Magistracy candidates.

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