Rule of Law & Access to Justice

Rule of law includes the structures of formal and informal justice that allow citizens the ability to rely on governmental systems to resolve conflict, rather than turning to violent or insurgent forces, or resorting to vigilante justice.  The hallmark of a strong rule of law is the effectiveness of the legal system, headed by  a judiciary but checked at all times by strong defense attorneys and prosecutors, and popular belief that the most safe and effective means to address concerns is to use, rather than avoid, the legal system.  Building rule of law includes building transparency, accountability, expectations, legitimacy, and credibility.  While many post-conflict nations are plagued with corruption, lack of leadership, and other challenges, a strong rule of law can diminish these effects.

Access to justice refers to the ability of people to resort to  the formal and informal justice system in resolving their problems.  The status and access of the most vulnerable groups (women, indigents, people of differing sexual orientation or gender identity, religious minorities, etc.) to justice system solutions is a valuable metric for how effective the rule of law is.  

For resources and information on access to justice and rule of law, click here.

To contact us about a rule of law or access to justice matter or engagement, click here.