When a select group of people in a country are not subject to laws which are fair, non-discriminatory and respect human rights-- justice, security and stability disappear while the delivery of basic social services suffer, such as health and education. A breakdown in the rule of law often fuels criminality, impunity and insecurity. For 1.5 billion people around the world who are living in places affected by conflict, violence or high levels of crime, re-establishing justice and security following a conflict or crisis is critical to development and the elimination of poverty.

In crisis affected countries, UNDP seeks to rapidly restore the rule of law, which includes promoting political dialogue and helping communities to deal with the legacy of conflict; giving people, especially women, access to justice and improved security; and helping institutions such as courts, justice ministries and the police to become more transparent, accountable and respectful of human rights, so the government can re-establish state authority.

Dealing with the legacy of conflict: Addressing human rights abuses following a conflict helps societies confront past crimes and is an important part of re-establishing peace. UNDP provides advice and training to communities seeking transitional justice, such as through truth commissions, reparations to victims and the prosecution of conflict-related crimes.

Improving security and reducing armed violence:  UNDP works to ensure that the security sector in post conflict countries is competent, accountable and aware of human rights, especially to protect women and the most vulnerable. This work can include restricting the flow of illegal weapons; strengthening civilian oversight; and training police.

Strengthening justice systems and providing access to justice: Improving public confidence in the justice system is essential to lasting recovery from conflict. UNDP works in conflict and post-conflict countries to help reform courts and judicial systems to make them more efficient; tackling corruption and addressing land and property rights; and providing legal aid to displaced and war-affected people. 

Ensuring women’s security and access to justice: Women and girls vulnerability to gender based violence is exacerbated during conflict. UNDP works to prosecute offenders; provide legal aid to victims and help them seek reparations; and improve the ability of governments to deal with the problem. This includes increasing the number of female police officers and court officials in post conflict environments.

 Click Here for More Stories

Through its Global Programme on Strengthening the Rule of Law in Conflict and Post-Conflict Situations UNDP is building peace and promoting access to justice and security in over 37 crisis-affected countries and situations. The Global Programme is also a vehicle for UNDP to engage in policy debates around rule of law, justice and security with other key UN actors, and to support international consensus-building towards collective action in this area. Through its Global Rule of Law Programme, UNDP is engaged in joint programming with the UN Department for Peacekeeping Operations and other UN agencies in a number of peacekeeping settings.