Statement by the Director-General, Ms Jan Beagle
Excellencies,
It is a pleasure to join you on behalf of the International Development Law Organization.
My message is simple: investing in the rule of law, as embodied in SDG 16, can mobilize financing for innovation, science, technology, and justice for women and girls, advancing progress across the entire 2030 Agenda.
Drawing on IDLO’s experience in some 100 countries over the past 40 years, allow me to share three examples, particularly relevant for this year’s Goals under review.
First, the rule of law encourages economic growth by helping countries attract and sustainably manage investment.
Paragraph 32 of the Sevilla Commitment reaffirms its critical role in creating enabling environments for investment.
IDLO supports governments to promote sustainable growth by simplifying regulations, resolving complex disputes, and strengthening their capacity to negotiate and implement investment agreements.
We also work with civil society and engage the private sector, including through innovative public-private partnerships, such as IDLO’s Investment Support Programme for Least Developed Countries (ISP/LDCs), which provide tailored support on investment-related matters.
Secondly, the rule of law is a powerful tool for promoting access to health services.
IDLO works at the nexus of health, development, and the rule of law to promote access to health services, support pandemic preparedness, and strengthen capacity to prevent and manage non-communicable diseases.
Third, the rule of law is also essential in advancing both rights and equal opportunity for women and girls.
IDLO works to eliminate discriminatory laws and develop legal and institutional frameworks that promote access to justice for all and empower women and girls to claim their rights.
I look forward to moderating tomorrow’s session on SDG 5, where we will further explore these and other key themes.
IDLO is committed to collaborating with all partners to promote peace and prosperity, unlock development potential, and protect human rights for all, through the rule of law.