Justice Minister calls for stronger action to ensure access to justice for Commonwealth’s 2.5 Bn citizens

Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reforms Minister Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe PC joined the Commonwealth Law Ministers’ Conference in calling for stronger action to ensure access to justice becomes a reality for the Commonwealth’s 2.5 billion citizens.

The conference is being held in Zanzibar, Tanzania. The conference which commenced on March 4 ends today (8).

Addressing the opening ceremony, Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Scotland said that it was their responsibility to carry forward the paradigm agreed at their last meeting in Mauritius to deliver the Declaration on Commonwealth Access to Justice and to work towards ensuring that the people of the Commonwealth have access to justice.

In the face of escalating crises around the world, she lauded the work of Commonwealth Law Ministers and called for greater focus on justice as an “essential strength” in overcoming today’s challenges. The Secretary General also requested the Ministers to work hard and courageously, and ensure that the commitments are not just words on paper, but live experiences for all.

Tanzanian President Samia Zuluhu Hassan opened the conference and explained the critical role of law in addressing unprecedented global challenges and the urgent need for cooperation to strengthen legal systems. The President highlighted her government’s use of technology to improve legal services, including the introduction of time-saving e-courts. She spoke of how digitization paves the way for developing people-centric access to justice.

At the conference, Ministers discussed policy and strategic actions needed to address access-to- justice challenges, particularly for women, people with disabilities and those living in poverty. The Law Ministerial Conference also discussed innovative practices of evidence-based policy making and effective use of digital resources to bridge gaps and improve justice service delivery.

More than 5.1 billion people – two-thirds of the world’s population – lack meaningful access to justice. Legal remedies can cost countries up to three percent of their GDP each year in lost income and stress-related illnesses.

Dr. Pindi H. Chana, Minister of Constitutional and Legal Affairs, who presided over the meeting, said that the conference will facilitate a meaningful dialogue to overcome the legal hurdles faced by the countries.

“From promoting access to justice to strengthening legal frameworks, our discussions in the coming days will help shape the future of law and governance in Commonwealth countries. We can build a Commonwealth where justice and equality reign supreme,” she added.

A statement summarising the meeting results will be issued today (8) and will support countries to achieve the mandates set out in the Commonwealth Access to Justice Declaration – a commitment by all 56 member states to ensure universal access to justice.

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