OUR WORK

Justitia et Pax works throughout the world and in The Netherlands for justice and peace, in conflict areas and in countries with a rule of law.

Justice and Reconciliation in Conflict Areas 

Conflict areas like Burundi, Congo and Sudan lack democratic governance and a functioning infrastructure. Social structures have been destroyed and do not get the opportunity to recover. Justice systems do not function and impunity increases the feeling of insecurity. Corruption, violence and human rights violations occur on a large scale. It is almost impossible for human rights defenders to do their work. In this situation, women above all have been shown to be vulnerable. They are often the victim of sexual violence.

Citizens of these countries are not protected by their governments. Civil society organisations have assumed this role and developed initiatives to promote justice and reconciliation. Their experience and position in local communities is essential for the transition to democratic rule of law (transitional justice). Social structures must be restored once more. Women play an important part in this.

Equal Access to Justice in States under the Rule of Law 

Countries like India and Pakistan are under the rule of law. That is to say that the authorities, institutions and individuals must act according to the norms and laws of a state under the rule of law and can be assessed accordingly. Civil society is organized and works among other things for access to justice. Conflict situations however result in the rule of law in these countries coming under pressure. This often leads to discrimination, impunity, exclusion and suppression of certain groups and minorities.

Human rights organisations, civil society and religious groups and institutions in these countries are usually well organized. They have a clear vision on the social and political context and the causes of the problems. They are strong at national and local level.

In The Netherlands also, there is discrimination against certain groups who are excluded and suppressed. People without valid residence documents and victims of human trafficking can only participate in society to a limited extent. The Netherlands must also comply with international human rights norms.