UNDP Calls for Stronger Rule of Law to Support Peace and Growth

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has called for renewed global efforts to strengthen the rule of law and protect human rights, warning that sustainable development becomes difficult when people cannot access justice, exercise their rights or feel secure in their communities. The message was a central theme at UNDP's Annual Meeting on Rule of Law and Human Rights, which brought together government officials, civil society leaders and international partners to discuss ways of addressing growing global instability.

Opening the event, UNDP Administrator Alexander De Croo said the rule of law may not always be visible in everyday conversations, but its impact is felt constantly through people's ability to live safely, resolve disputes fairly and trust public institutions. The discussions took place against a backdrop of ongoing conflicts, political instability and humanitarian crises affecting many regions of the world.

Countries Share Lessons From Frontline Challenges

Participants from countries including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guatemala, Lebanon, Pakistan, Somalia and Ukraine shared experiences of working to strengthen justice systems and uphold human rights in difficult circumstances.

Lebanon's Justice Minister Adel Nassar described the rule of law as a matter of survival rather than policy preference, reflecting the challenges faced by societies dealing with multiple crises at the same time.

Speakers emphasized that local communities play a critical role in building security and trust. Representatives from Ukraine, Yemen and The Gambia highlighted the importance of community-led solutions that address the needs of people most vulnerable to conflict, exclusion and instability.

Human rights were repeatedly identified as a key tool for preventing conflict, strengthening social cohesion and creating conditions for lasting peace.

Women's Leadership and Inclusive Recovery in Focus

A major focus of the meeting was the role of women in peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery. Participants stressed that women continue to be excluded from formal decision-making processes despite their contributions to conflict resolution and community rebuilding.

Somali peace advocate Ilwad Elman argued that women's participation should be treated as a requirement for successful transitions rather than an optional objective. Speakers called for predictable funding for women-led organisations, stronger protection of civic space and measures to ensure women's representation remains embedded within institutions rather than dependent on individual leaders.

The meeting also explored the role of businesses in fragile and conflict-affected environments. Participants noted that investment decisions can either support recovery and stability or contribute to further harm if they are not guided by responsible and conflict-sensitive practices.

The event concluded with calls for deeper cooperation between governments, civil society, businesses and international organisations. Participants agreed that strengthening justice systems, protecting human rights and rebuilding public trust remain among the most effective ways to prevent conflict, support development and create more resilient societies.