Statement by the Director-General, Ms Jan Beagle
I am pleased to take the floor on behalf of the International Development Law Organization for this important and timely discussion on implementing the outcomes of SIDS4.
I would like to begin by extending my warmest congratulations to the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda for their excellent organization and gracious hospitality as hosts of the SIDS4 Conference, where IDLO was pleased to participate. The mobilisation of local people to support the logistics of the event was particularly impressive.
The Conference provided a critical opportunity to exchange ideas and develop partnerships with an array of stakeholders, giving tangible meaning to whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches. IDLO promoted these approaches, alongside the Government of Vanuatu and the UN Environment Programme, in its side event on climate justice for SIDS.
As the only global intergovernmental organization exclusively devoted to promoting the rule of law to advance peace and sustainable development, we welcome the affirmation of the importance of the rule of law, as well as references to strengthening institutions and gender equality, in the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS).
This programme of action provides a blueprint for sustainable development in small island states that can secure social, economic and environmental prosperity for 65 million people.
Let me make four brief points with respect to next steps:
First, with its focus on peace, justice and accountable and inclusive institutions, SDG16 can be a truly transformative Goal, both in itself and as an enabler of all the other SDGs, and should be central in the implementation of the Agenda for SIDS.
Second, fair laws and effective institutions are the cornerstone of development, capable of translating commitments into action and ensuring that governments and partners are accountable to deliver the positive, lasting change envisaged in ABAS. They can also create enabling environments that strengthen donor confidence and encourage investment, including to help small islands adapt to the climate crisis.
Third, people-centred justice systems can also protect the rights of those who are most marginalized and vulnerable, empowering them to participate in decision-making and ensuring that no-one is left behind. Governments and development partners should work to safeguard access to justice for all through the provision of legal aid and legal education – as well as through strengthening diverse pathways to justice, including customary and informal justice systems.
And finally, with its focus on equality and non-discrimination, the rule of law can promote justice for women and girls by breaking down the barriers that hinder gender equality. Eliminating gender-discriminatory laws and practices, supporting women-led organizations and caucuses, and strengthening the vital leadership roles of women, can help to close the gender justice gap and make a major contribution to the implementation of the Agenda for SIDS and Agenda 2030.
IDLO will continue to be a partner and an ally for small islands and all those who inhabit them.