“We are delighted that Uganda has joined IDLO,” remarked IDLO Director-General Irene Khan. “By becoming a Member, Uganda is sending a very clear message about its commitment to the rule of law and advancing access to justice.”
The Republic of Uganda joined IDLO as its 37th Member Party on October 4, 2019 when Her Excellency Ambassador Elizabeth Napeyok deposited the instrument of accession at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Rome.
Finalized directly after Director-General Khan’s high-level mission to the country in September, Uganda’s membership deepens its ongoing partnership with IDLO.
During a meeting with Ms. Khan ahead of the accession, Uganda’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, remarked: “Uganda has decided to become a Member Party of IDLO because Uganda shares similar pursuits, objectives and aspirations to promote justice and development.”
“I strongly welcome this development, Uganda’s membership in IDLO further strengthens our ongoing cooperation on access to justice and the rule of law,” said Ambassador Napeyok.
Uganda joins IDLO as the Organization gears up to launch its community justice program in the country. The five-year program aims to support the efforts of Uganda’s Justice Law and Order Sector and civil society in bringing justice closer to the people.
IDLO will work with national, district and community-level justice actors to secure accessible, quality and sustainable justice services for citizens - particularly the most vulnerable and marginalized members of society.
With Uganda as a new Member Party, opportunities for engagement will continue to expand. The country’s membership signals its dedication to SDG 16: to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.
