Statement by Sunil Pal, Deputy Permanent Observer to the UN, New York
Excellencies,
It is a pleasure to address you on behalf of the International Development Law Organization (IDLO).
IDLO has been a longstanding partner of several Landlocked Developing Countries, across Africa and Asia, where we support solutions to complex development challenges, from food insecurity to pandemic preparedness.
In our experience, the rule of law is a powerful tool that can help LLDCs unlock their development potential, including by attracting investment, enhancing competitiveness, and fostering structural transformation.
We welcome, in this regard, the Awaza Programme of Action’s reaffirmation of the importance of the rule of law and access to justice, as well as the references to strengthening institutions and advancing equality for women and girls.
Let me share three examples of how the rule of law can support the implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action.
First, the rule of law encourages economic growth by helping countries attract and sustainably manage investment.
IDLO supports governments to build enabling environments that inspire investor confidence by simplifying regulations, resolving complex disputes, and strengthening their capacity to negotiate and implement investment agreements.
We also work with civil society and engage the private sector, including through innovative public-private partnerships, such as IDLO’s Investment Support Programme for Least Developed Countries (ISP/LDCs), which provide tailored support to LDCs, some of whom are also LLDCs, on investment-related matters.
In Malawi, for instance, we provided a state-owned enterprise with a tailored Joint Venture model Agreement to facilitate negotiations for sustainable agricultural investment projects.
Second, the rule of law is a powerful enabler of women’s empowerment.
Strengthening the employment, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment of women will not only reduce the justice gap for women, but also drive a country’s economic growth, contributing to overall development and stability.
IDLO works to eliminate discriminatory laws and develop legal and institutional frameworks that empower women to claim their rights and foster economic opportunities for women-led businesses.
In Uganda, for example, IDLO works across communities – with women and girls – to increase their awareness of land tenure rights and to provide advice on how to claim these rights.
Third, the rule of law can help countries address environmental challenges.
IDLO works to strengthen laws and policies related to the management of food, land and natural resources and build the capacity of institutions and communities to resolve environmental disputes, promote a clean and healthy environment, and strengthen food security.
In Rwanda, IDLO worked to enhance land conflict management and dispute resolution mechanisms, including by strengthening the National Land Authority’s engagement with state-mandated community mediators – the Abunzi, which helped to resolve over ten thousand community land disputes over the past year.
Looking ahead, IDLO is committed to collaborating with all of you in harnessing the rule of law as a catalyst for the effective implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action.