Statement by the Director-General, Ms Jan Beagle
New York, 16 July 2025
Excellencies,
The 2030 Agenda has provided a roadmap to a more prosperous future.
But, as we have heard time and again, we are not on track to deliver what was promised in 2015.
ABAS, however, provides an opportunity to reinvigorate sustainable development efforts that encourage us not only to focus our determination on the next five years, but beyond 2030.
We welcome therefore, ABAS’ reaffirmation of the rule of law and justice as a catalyst for peaceful, prosperous and inclusive societies, and the importance of building strong institutions, as well as gender equality.
IDLO would like to share three ways in which strengthening the rule of law and advancing SDG16 can help us achieve common goals in the 2030 Agenda and ABAS.
First, progress on SDG16 can promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
IDLO collaborates with governments to enhance regulatory frameworks; build institutional capacity to resolve commercial disputes; and protect national assets, while strengthening investor confidence.
These are key for creating an enabling environment that attracts foreign direct investment, builds trust, and generates resources that can be reinvested in sustainable development efforts.
Second, the rule of law provides a framework for the integrated solutions needed to deliver the SDGs and ABAS.
As SIDS confront existing and new challenges—from climate change to digital transformation—they need effective legal frameworks and accountable institutions to ensure that policy ambitions translate into results.
Laws and mechanisms that resolve disputes over land tenure and water rights are essential for climate resilience.
We need regulations for digital spaces that promote innovation, while protecting rights and equal access.
Third, the rule of law is a powerful enabler of women’s empowerment.
Hard-fought gains on equality worldwide have been lost and the justice gap for women and girls continues to widen.
Eliminating discriminatory laws and adopting transformative legal frameworks that combat violence and economic exclusion are key in facilitating the participation of women in public life and closing the gap.
IDLO stands ready to support you in advancing the rule of law and access to justice on your journey to 2034.