Justice systems across Europe are undergoing a significant digital transformation. New technologies are reshaping how courts, prisons, probation services, and wider justice institutions deliver services, interact with stakeholders, and respond to increasing demands for efficiency, accessibility, and transparency. From video hearings and remote participation tools to integrated digital case management systems and emerging innovations, digitalisation is becoming an increasingly important part of modern justice administration.
At the same time, digital transformation presents new challenges. Justice institutions must balance innovation with fundamental principles such as fairness, security, accessibility, and human rights. Questions around technological adoption, user experience, digital inclusion, data protection, and organisational change continue to shape the way new solutions are developed and implemented.
- Anni Lietonen (HEUNI, Finland):
Researcher, European Institute for Crime Prevention and Control (HEUNI), FinlandAnni Lietonen is a researcher at HEUNI and a doctoral researcher at Åbo Akademi University, where she examines how digitalized criminal justice proceedings influence participants' perceptions of fairness. With expertise spanning criminology, victimology, human trafficking, labour exploitation, gender-based violence, cybercrime, and trust in justice, Anni has contributed to numerous EU-wide and international research projects. A strong advocate for science communication, she believes research should reach not only academics and policymakers, but also practitioners and the wider public. Combining extensive experience in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, Anni is committed to ensuring that evidence informs practice and helps amplify the voices and experiences of those affected by crime.
- Marjan Lukavečki (Croatia):
EuroPris ICT Expert Network Coordinator, CroatiaMarjan Lukavečki is a Sector Adviser within the Directorate for the Prison System and Probation at Croatia's Ministry of Justice, Public Administration and Digital Transformation. With a background in IT engineering and an MBA, he brings extensive experience in prison security, information management, staff training, and the development of digital solutions for correctional services. Since joining the Croatian prison system in 2011, he has played a key role in advancing the digital transformation of prison and probation services, supporting the modernisation of processes, information systems, and technology adoption. His areas of expertise include digital.
- Daniel Schmidt (Council of Europe):
Secretary, Working Group on Cyberjustice and Artificial Intelligence, European Commission for the Efficiency of Justice (CEPEJ), Council of Europe
Daniel Schmidt serves as Secretary of the Intergovernmental Working Group on Cyberjustice and Artificial Intelligence of the Council of Europe's European Commission for the Efficiency of Justice (CEPEJ). In this role, Daniel supports the development of European standards, guidance, and policy initiatives aimed at advancing the digital transformation of justice systems while safeguarding fundamental rights, judicial independence, and access to justice. Through his work, Daniel contributes to discussions on artificial intelligence in the judiciary, digital court procedures, online dispute resolution, and other innovations shaping the future of justice in Europe.projects. A strong advocate for science communication, she believes research should reach not only academics and policymakers, but also practitioners and the wider public. Combining extensive experience in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, Anni is committed to ensuring that evidence informs practice and helps amplify the voices and experiences of those affected by crime.
