Mission and Vision

IIJD Mission and Vision

Founded in 2001 to promote the principles of democratic governance and the rule of law for all people nationally and internationally, IIJD focuses on the underlying causes of Africa’s development crisis and persistent poverty, and seeks to address the startling weaknesses often found in the development field.

Mission Statement

The mission of the International Institute for Justice and Development is to promote justice and provide innovative development solutions for long-lasting positive change in poor communities and African countries by:

Reforming institutions, laws, policies, and customs that trap people in poverty;

Dismantling systemic barriers that paralyze the ingenuity of people;

Building local capacity and aggressively incorporating stakeholders in decision-making and program design and implementation; and

Working with disadvantaged and poor communities to help solve their self-defined social, economic, political, ecological, and other day-to-day living challenges.

We assume:

That a solid socio-political infrastructure and good governance are conducive to economic emancipation and social justice;

That a transparent legal system where the rights of all citizens are equally protected serves as the base for meaningful economic and social development;

That the leaders of this world have the means to make poverty history in a few years;

That local and international experts in development have the ability to create feasible and efficient development solutions.

Vision Statement:

Our vision is a world where every human being’s basic needs are fulfilled every day and where the principles of justice and equity are respected. We believe that a world where justice prevails is a world always in peace. We also envision a world where governments embrace the needs and welfare of their citizens, so that all may live in dignity and health.

We believe:

That a functioning democracy requires strong institutions, including an independent judiciary, and most importantly, a leadership committed to practicing democratic values and respecting human dignity;

That reforming institutions, helping and empowering individuals and communities are essential for developing countries to ensure sustained progress;

That justice and development issues are interrelated, and that underdevelopment needs to be addressed through a comprehensive approach combining institutional development and reform, infrastructure building, local participation and capacity building;

That the ability to satisfy basic life necessities should be a respected and universally recognized human right;

That all people have the right to participate in the management of the affairs of their community - directly or through representation - but most importantly safely and freely;

That transparency and accountability are strong pillars for the development of a vibrant private sector, trust in leadership, and successful public services management.