"It is impossible to have a public trial if you can't guarantee the safety of witnesses, judges or defense counsel"

Richard Goldstone's quote highlights an essential concept of justice and the rule of law: the need of security for all individuals in a legal process to ensure a fair and transparent trial. The assertion underlines that a public trial, one that is open to scrutiny to support accountability, is contingent upon the defense of those involved, consisting of witnesses, judges, and defense counsel.

Most importantly, the safety of witnesses is important as they supply necessary testimonies that can substantially influence the direction and result of a trial. If witnesses feel threatened, their ability to testify honestly and precisely is compromised, which weakens the trial's stability. Intimidation or damage could result in keeping information, false statement, or an outright rejection to appear in court, all of which skew the judicial procedure.

Likewise, the judges' security is important for impartiality. Judges should make decisions based upon proof and the law, free from fear of individual repercussions. If a judge can be pushed or threatened, the scales of justice idea towards those with power or impact instead of fact and fairness. This corruption of the legal system wears down public trust and weakens judicial authority.

Finally, defense counsel should be able to promote vigorously for their customers without issue for their security. They are tasked with guaranteeing that the implicated receive a reasonable trial which their rights are upheld. Hazards to their wellness can impede their capability to carry out these tasks effectively, possibly leading to miscarriages of justice.

In essence, Goldstone's quote emphasizes that the integrity of the judicial system relies greatly on an environment where all individuals are safe. Without such warranties, the trial process ends up being susceptible to manipulation and browbeating, removing away its public nature and fairness. This situation is especially critical in areas experiencing political instability or conflict, where legal proceedings are more susceptible to outdoors interference and risks. Eventually, protecting those associated with the trial procedure is crucial to attaining justice and preserving public confidence in legal institutions.