The complex political, social, and economic effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic have dramatically underscored the importance of building just, open, and accountable governance for all. As rule of law performance continues to deteriorate around the world, however, communities are falling further behind the ambitious goal to “leave no one behind,” set by government leaders in the 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In particular, the COVID-19 crisis has exacerbated the longstanding structural inequalities and governance weaknesses that threaten progress. If communities are to achieve a just recovery, withstand the next shock, and fulfill the promise of sustainable development for all, they must strengthen the rule of law.

To build fairer, healthier, and more peaceful communities, we need a comprehensive rule of law agenda to tackle the root causes of societies’ persistent inability to deliver a dignified life for all. Such a multi-faceted agenda should include:

1) guaranteeing fair and effective access to justice for all;
2) ensuring open and accountable government and combating the corruption that cheats people of basic necessities; and
3) eliminating systemic discrimination and exclusion through the implementation of just laws that protect fundamental rights and equal treatment.

The World Justice Project and its partners will convene the World Justice Forum 2022 with hundreds of rule of law actors from around the world in The Hague and online for three days of agenda-setting, learning, and action on these themes to ensure the path of recovery from COVID-19 is just and that progress toward achieving the SDGs gets back on track.