Brazil: Proposed Code of Ethics for Magistracy sparks debate over STF oversight

Minister Edson Fachin has proposed the creation of a Code of Ethics for the Magistracy within the National Council of Justice (CNJ). The initiative aims to strengthen judicial integrity by standardizing conduct across State, Federal, Labor, Electoral, and Military courts to increase predictability and transparency.

However, a legal complexity arises because the Supreme Federal Court (STF) is not subject to the administrative jurisdiction of the CNJ. This exclusion creates an asymmetry in the justice system, as the STF's decisions play a central role in national affairs. Critics argue that because the Supreme Court has moved toward a more active role in the political landscape, it should be included in a uniform ethical framework to ensure institutional parity.