In Support of Funding and Programs to Strengthen the Rule of Law and Improve the Administration of Justice Throughout the World
Resolution 11 In Support of Funding and Programs to Strengthen the Rule of Law and Improve the Administration of Justice Throughout the World
WHEREAS, the rule of law and the fair and effective administration of justice throughout the world are essential elements of democracy and crucial to the protection of fundamental human rights; and
WHEREAS, the rule of law and the fair and effective administration of justice throughout the world enhance accountability, deter corruption, promote commerce, investment, and economic development, and serve as a powerful weapon against terrorism; and
WHEREAS, an independent, well-trained, and adequately-funded judiciary and judicial system are necessary to achieve these goals and require leadership and sustained programs; and
WHEREAS, many state courts have assisted judicial, legislative, and executive branch leaders of developing and transitional nations in strengthening the rule of law, enhancing judicial independence, and improving the administration of justice;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Conference of Chief Justices encourages the United States Agency for International Development, the World Bank, and other bilateral and multilateral international endeavors to continue to recognize the strengthening of the rule of law and the improvement of the administration of justice as key components of their missions, and to support expanded projects and programs — including those involving state courts — designed to achieve these goals worldwide; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Conference urges Congress to provide adequate and sustained funding to support such efforts.
Adopted as proposed by the Past Presidents Committee of the Conference of Chief Justices at the 25th Midyear Meeting in Tucson, Arizona on January 24, 2002.