Partnership Forum

IDLO AT 40: BUILDING A MORE PEACEFUL, JUST, AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Halfway to the 2030 deadline to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), the world is facing a perfect storm of crises. These include rising levels of conflict, the severe consequences of climate change and food insecurity, as well as the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The compounding effects of these intersecting crises are closely correlated to a global decline in the rule of law.

This is reflected in democratic backsliding, declining trust in multilateralism, attacks on the independence of the judiciary, shrinking civic space, and the alarming rise in corruption. Alarmingly, the justice gap is widening, particularly for women, youth, and marginalized and vulnerable communities at risk of being left behind. The Secretary-General has warned that “unless we act now, the 2030 Agenda could become an epitaph for a world that might have been.”

The causes and effects of these crises – and the actions needed to address them – are interconnected and deeply rooted in human rights, justice, equity, inclusion, accountability, and good governance. The rule of law and SDG 16 are critical enablers and accelerators of the 2030 Agenda, serving as a compass to navigate these multiple intersecting crises, and guiding us towards solutions that prioritize peace, justice, strong institutions, and inclusive societies as the fundamental pillars of transformative change.

To mark IDLO’s 40th Anniversary, this year’s special edition of IDLO’s Partnership Forum will highlight the organization’s contributions in building a culture of justice worldwide. Drawing from the experiences of a distinguished group of speakers, the discussion will focus on IDLO’s mandate and role in tackling global crises. It will also offer perspectives on reinvigorating international support for the rule of law to advance the 2030 Agenda and build a more peaceful, just and sustainable future.

Held annually in conjunction with IDLO’s Assembly of Parties, the Partnership Forum is a platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue. It brings together IDLO Member Parties, senior government officials, representatives of multilateral organizations, civil society, youth, academia, and the judiciary to stimulate dialogue on critical rule of law issues, share experience, and facilitate partnerships.