Justice for Iryna Zarutska

Aim

To honour the memory of Iryna Zarutska, and as a symbol of our demand for change, we propose the commissioning of murals in major cities acr

The Issue

In 2025, the tragedy of Iryna Zarutska, a young Ukrainian woman, shocked the whole world. Iryna was stabbed to death by a man with a known criminal record, yet he was walking free, a result of a decision made by a judge who, shockingly, had no formal legal education. This grave miscarriage of justice has highlighted a critical flaw within our legal system – the absence of a requirement for judges to have studied law formally.

The Goal

In the wake of Iryna Zarutska's tragic death, it's imperative that we address the underlying issues within our judiciary. The need for judges to be well-versed in law cannot be overstated. By ensuring that those who hold the power to make pivotal legal decisions are adequately educated, we can work towards preventing further injustice and restoring faith in our legal systems.

We propose the creation of a Europe-wide initiative that mandates formal legal education as a prerequisite for all judges. Such a reform would not only ensure that judges are equipped with the necessary knowledge but would also enhance the credibility of legal proceedings. Our justice systems must be beyond reproach, and this starts with a qualified bench.

How the Funds Will Be Used

To honour the memory of Iryna Zarutska, and as a symbol of our demand for change, we propose the commissioning of murals in major cities across Europe. These murals will not only commemorate Iryna's life but serve as a poignant reminder of the change that needs to happen. We call upon local authorities, artists, and communities to collaborate in creating these murals, fostering a dialogue that transcends borders and reinforces the collective yearning for justice.

This project closed unsuccessfully on 30th September 2025