This study proposes to use the example of judicial reform to find a balance of flexibility and clarity to improve the effectiveness of Ukraine’s accession negotiations. This paper proposes a methodological approach to address these challenges, focusing on a normative and empirical analysis of the judiciary in Ukraine and offering policy recommendations that are appropriate for different stages of the negotiation process.

The paper includes a normative and empirical analysis of the state of judicial reform in Ukraine in order to understand its problems and needs in the context of European integration. The research methodology involves studying both legislation and its practical application in four components. The study results in the formulation of policy recommendations based on the identified gaps.