GENEVA (11 February 2022) - The UN Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, Diego García-Sayán, at the invitation of the government will conduct an official visit to Bolivia from 15 to 22 February. The independent expert will address issues related to the structure, organization, independence and impartial functioning of the judiciary and prosecutors; the administration of justice; fair trial; as well as the independent exercise of the legal profession. "The objective of my visit is to examine, in a spirit of cooperation and dialogue, the situation of justice in Bolivia, and to be able to make a contribution to the ongoing reform efforts in the country," said García-Sayán, adding he will also examine equal access to justice and legal aid, including from a gender perspective. "I intend to establish a constructive dialogue with all parties interested in strengthening the administration of justice in Bolivia." During his visit, the expert will meet government officials and legislative authorities, as well as with judges, prosecutors and lawyers. He will also meet representatives from civil society, academia, United Nations agencies, donors and the diplomatic community. At the end of the visit, on 22 February, the special rapporteur will hold a news conference to present his preliminary observations. It will be held at 2 p.m. local time at the Hotel Presidente, in La Paz. Access will be strictly limited to accredited journalists. During his visit, the Rapporteur will not make statements to the press, beyond his final press conference. The Special Rapporteur will present a comprehensive report with his conclusions and recommendations to the Human Rights Council in Geneva in June 2023.