Statement by the International Development Law Organization (IDLO)
Excellencies,
It is a pleasure to participate on behalf of the International Development Law Organization, the only global intergovernmental organization exclusively devoted to promoting the rule of law to advance peace and sustainable development.
For over 40 years, we have partnered with people and governments in all regions to address justice needs and advance nationally led solutions to major development challenges.
The global intersecting crises, including rising conflicts, climate change and food insecurity, are exacerbating poverty cycles.
Marginalized and vulnerable groups, including women and girls, who already live in conditions of inequality, insecurity and injustice, are disproportionately affected.
According to the 2024 UNDP Trends Report, at current rates, only one-third of countries will have halved national poverty by 2030.
In IDLO’s experience, the rule of law, as embodied in SDG 16, can provide a practical roadmap to tackle these challenges and leave no one behind.
Allow me to share three examples.
First, effective laws, and accessible and accountable institutions, are key to promoting inclusive economic development.
The rule of law can encourage growth by providing stability and certainty and resolving disputes fairly and expeditiously.
In Kenya, for instance, IDLO has been supporting the Small Claims Courts since their inception in 2016. The Courts’ speedier resolution of commercial disputes has enabled the release of finances that would otherwise be tied-up in litigation back into the economy, thereby facilitating trade and investment for micro, small and medium enterprises.
Secondly, a people-centred approach to justice systems can empower people with the tools and knowledge to claim their rights and participate in decision-making.
Making institutions more transparent and responsive, and enhancing their capacity to combat all forms of corruption, is likewise crucial to improving the prospects of the poor.
This can ensure that much needed resources do not end up diverted for private gain instead of being used for the public good.
Third and finally, IDLO strongly believes that gender equality and women’s empowerment are key to achieving sustainable development and eradicating poverty.
Eliminating discriminatory laws, building gender-responsive legal and regulatory frameworks, and enhancing women’s leadership and participation in the justice sector, are essential to lift women out of poverty.
IDLO is committed to collaborating with all of you to unlock the rule of law’s potential as a driver of peace and sustainable development.