The work abroad is based on an aid policy platform. ICJ-Sweden can, according to its statutes, participate in programs and projects aimed at promoting human rights and the rule of law in other countries. These activities have its foundation in the work in Sweden and shall be based on the Swedish Sections legal skills and high competence for development cooperation.
Background
ICJ-Swedens aid cooperation activities began more than twenty years ago. Since then the Swedish Section has had an interest of safeguarding the enforcement of human rights and the rule of law in developing countries. The experience that ICJ-Sweden has received through its longstanding efforts to strengthen the rule of law nationally and the fact that the organisation possesses specific expertise through its members’ extensive knowledge makes ICJ-Sweden particularly suited to carry out legal assistance. Sida (Swedish International Development and Cooperation Agency) has contributed to the financial support required for this purpose.
Starting Point
The Swedish Section believes that well-functioning legal and judicial institutions are a precondition for democracy and sound economic development. Legal Aid should therefore be given priority in development cooperation.
Human rights are fundamental to any society and a key concept for development cooperation. It is already in the concept of ”development” that a society needs a minimum of rule of law and human rights, which is of great importance for the poorest in a society. Such an approach highlights the individual’s own ability. Projects that promote education on rights, legal aid, appeal mechanisms and the control of crimes therefore have a clear poverty profile. Such a rights perspective implies that there is a judicial system that can guarantee the respect for these rights. An honest and efficient judicial system is of particular importance for the poorest because they lack other means to assert their rights.
Aid Policy Platform
Click here to read the Aid Policy Platform
