Antwerp Court of Appeal Launches Podcast to Enhance Public Engagement
The Antwerp Court of Appeal has launched its own studio for recording the podcast Gewikt en Gewogen (“Considered and Weighed”). With this initiative, the courts and tribunals of the Antwerp-Limburg jurisdiction aim to bring justice closer to the public, reports 24brussels.
Since its inception on March 23, the podcast has garnered significant interest, achieving its seven thousandth stream, according to Luc De Cleir, spokesperson for the Antwerp-Limburg jurisdiction. The podcast serves as a platform to inform citizens about the justice system and promote dialogue regarding legal matters.
“The rule of law needs a debate about justice to survive.”
De Cleir emphasizes that participation in the justice system is not limited to professionals; rather, there is a collective responsibility to engage and inform society. The podcast format reflects a broader shift in judicial communication, aiming to make legal proceedings more accessible to the public.
Addressing Social Issues and Current Events
In addition to the podcast, the Antwerp-Limburg courts have established joint social media platforms and are poised to release a comprehensive digital and press guideline. De Cleir notes that the podcast’s content explores socially relevant topics and current events, enhancing public understanding of the justice system.
New episodes of Gewikt en Gewogen are released every two weeks, alternating with shorter editions focusing on contemporary issues. Currently, sixteen episodes are available on various platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, with additional episodes in production.
The court has invested in a dedicated podcast studio, marking a significant advancement in the European judicial landscape. This initiative positions Antwerp as the first courthouse in Europe to feature its own podcast facility.
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