ECOSOC

In today’s volatile world, amidst the political, financial and social turmoil, it is more urgent than ever to not only acknowledge but also to pursue sustainable development as a means of salvation from this gloomy reality.In 2015 a comprehensive plan of action was initiated under the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development.Amongst other things, particular emphasis was given on the access to justice and the implementation of the rule of law, both of which serve as enablers of sustainable development.The UN definition of the rule of law is as follows: “a principle of governance in which all persons, institutions and entities, public and private, including the State itself, are accountable to laws that are
publicly promulgated, equally enforced and independently adjudicated”.The importance of such a principle is self-evident.However, the aforementioned theoretic foundation is rendered devoid of any meaning without its practical counterpart that enables it, namely a (penal) justice system that not only guarantees the safety, security and the absence of discrimination towards the violators, but also works as a valuable cog in the clockwork of social, financial and political development.In conclusion, this is the basis and the first step towards achieving the grandiose goal of crime prevention which, arguably, constitutes the basis of just, peaceful and inclusive societies and a focal point of sustainable development.

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