The global pandemic of 2020-21 has underscored the high costs of neglecting just, open, and accountable governance for all. As rule of law performance continues to deteriorate around the world, communities are falling further behind the ambitious Sustainable Development Goals adopted in 2015, promising to “leave no one behind.” In particular, the COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the longstanding structural inequalities and governance weaknesses that threaten progress. If communities are to withstand the next shock and fulfill the promise of sustainable development for all, they must strengthen the foundational elements of the rule of law.

As we rebuild fairer and healthier communities, the world needs a comprehensive rule of law agenda that tackles the root causes of societies’ persistent inability to deliver a dignified life for all. Such a multi-faceted agenda would encompass: 1) eliminating systemic discrimination and exclusion and protecting fundamental rights and equality of opportunity; 2) ensuring open and accountable government and combating the corruption that cheats people of basic necessities; and 3) guaranteeing fair and effective access to justice for all.

The World Justice Forum 2022 will convene public and private sector leaders and advocates from around the world —in person and online— for three days of agenda-setting, learning, and action to ensure the path of recovery from COVID-19 is just and that progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals remains on track.

More info: https://worldjusticeproject.org/world-justice-forum-2022