On 8 May HiiL hosted the Justice Matters conference at the Peace Palace in The Hague, a global call to recognise justice as a cornerstone of peace, stability and economic growth. The event brought together Government leaders, policymakers, donors and justice practitioners from around the world to discuss the future of justice and why change is needed now more than ever.
The event was live streamed and supported by the City of The Hague and the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Speakers included Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, former Vice President of Nigeria, Allyson Maynard Gibson, former Attorney-General of The Bahamas, Chief Justice Martha Koome of Kenya (via video), and Kees Matthijssen, Lieutenant General (ret.) of the Royal Dutch Army. They were joined by voices from the tech, development, entrepreneur and justice sectors, including representatives from the OECD and the World Bank. It featured panel discussions, case studies and keynote speeches, all aimed at spotlighting people-centred justice solutions that work and unpacking the persistent barriers that prevent their scale.
Why Justice Still Matters
“When justice fails, the world shakes,” said HiiL’s CEO Udo Jude Ilo in his opening remarks, pointing to the social, economic and political consequences of unresolved legal problems.
Each year, over 1.5 billion people face justice issues, from land disputes and family matters to conflicts with employers or public authorities. Many never find fair or lasting solutions. These gaps in justice access erode trust in institutions, fuel instability and in some contexts, drive forced migration. Lex Gerts of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs captured this dynamic succinctly: “People need access to justice in their daily lives to protect their rights. Justice is not a luxury, but a foundation for peace and prosperity.’’
From Evidence to Action
Throughout the day, a central theme emerged: we know what works. People-centred justice is not a new idea, but its application remains limited. Grounded in the needs and experiences of justice users, this approach starts with data about the problems people face and builds tailored, fair and accessible solutions. The programme featured practical examples that showed this approach in action. Uganda’s Barefoot Law, which reaches remote communities through simple mobile technology, and Contend Legal’s digital dispute resolution tools in England and Wales demonstrated how innovation can close access gaps when designed around real-life needs.
But implementation remains the challenge. As Allyson Maynard Gibson, former Attorney-General of The Bahamas, put it, “If we position justice as a developmental imperative, we can build significantly on the growth that has already been obtained.” Doing so requires new ways of working and deeper partnerships.
Justice in the Bigger Picture
Justice does not operate in a vacuum. Several sessions explored its links to peace, stability and economic growth. A functioning justice system encourages investment, supports entrepreneurship and helps communities thrive. Without it, disputes fester, conflict grows, and economic activity slows.
The example of Niger’s anti-smuggling law illustrated how a well-meaning legal measure, disconnected from people’s lived realities, can backfire. Rather than protecting vulnerable migrants, it criminalised movement and undermined trust in state institutions. This reinforced a recurring message of the day: justice that is not centred on people’s needs can do more harm than good.
What It Takes to Scale
Despite clear examples of success, scaling people-centred approaches remains difficult. Justice systems are fragmented, with courts, ministries, service providers and civil society often working in silos. Political cycles, short-term funding and outdated regulatory frameworks further complicate progress. Speakers pointed to the need for stronger data, a wider coalition of actors—including ministries of finance, education and technology—and a long-term vision that frames justice as essential infrastructure.
Participants also highlighted the need for local leadership and accountability. National ownership and trust are key to sustaining reforms, especially in fragile or conflict-affected settings. International donors were urged to invest not only in pilot projects, but in efforts to embed what works into routine practice.
Looking Ahead
Justice Matters was not only a platform to share insights. It was a moment to refocus and commit to action. The takeaway was clear: the tools, knowledge and energy are there, but sustained impact will depend on building stronger partnerships and moving from ideas to implementation.
To everyone who joined us in The Hague or tuned in online, thank you!
Watch the Wrap-up video here
Read the outcomes document
See the Photo gallery
