Elements for discussion: Access to justice for persons living in poverty: a human rights approach

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 face from seeking or receiving justice, and how people can be empowered to claim these rights.  The report contains recommendations for development cooperation professionals on effective ways to support rule of law in developing countries, moving beyond traditional legal empowerment approaches.

The publication has been authored by Dr. Magdalena Sepúlveda Carmona, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Extreme Poverty and Human Rights, with Ms. Kate Donald who is her researcher and adviser.  A Foreword written by Finland's Minister for International Development, Mr. Pekka Haavisto, is included.

Access to justice for persons living in poverty: a human rights approach (PDF)