Access to Justice for Persons Living in Poverty: A Human Rights Approach

Abstract

Access to justice is a fundamental human right. It is also essential for the protection and promotion of all other economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights, and fundamental to fighting poverty and tackling global and national inequalities.

Yet, accessing justice is not easy for many poor, disadvantaged and socially excluded people, denying them the chance to challenge crimes, abuses or human rights violations committed against them. This publication analyses the full range of obstacles that prevent poor women and men from seeking or receiving justice, and how people can be empowered to claim these rights. It contains recommendations for development cooperation professionals on effective ways to support rule of law in developing countries, moving beyond traditional legal empowerment approaches.

Keywords: access to justice, rule of law, human rights, women empowerment