Development begins with institutions. Institutions that people trust to be fair, accountable and accessible. Too often, governance, the rule of law, justice and human rights are treated as separate agendas. In reality, they are the foundations upon which development rests.
People may not talk about the rule of law every day. But they experience its presence – or its absence – constantly. It shapes whether a woman facing violence can access protection. Whether a family can recover documents after a crisis. Whether businesses can invest with confidence. Whether communities can resolve tensions peacefully before they become conflict. From virtual courts in Pakistan to local dispute resolution in Yemen, to support for accountability and rights protection in Ukraine, the lesson is consistent: when institutions function, rights are protected. When rights are protected, trust grows. And when trust grows, progress becomes possible.
Across more than 100 countries and territories, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) advances this work with our partners through our Global Programme for Strengthening the Rule of Law, Human Rights, Justice and Security for Sustainable Peace and Development. We are helping countries build institutions that can withstand pressure, protect rights and create opportunity. I thank our donors and partners for their continued support. Sustainable development is not built on projects alone. It is built on trust. And trust is built through institutions that work. In an increasingly uncertain world, that is not only the foundation of development. It is the foundation of a more secure world.
Administrator, UNDP
