Equitable Justice and Sentencing Reform Programme

Overview

Access to justice is a constitutional right, yet poor and vulnerable groups often face systemic barriers that hinder their ability to navigate the legal system. These include limited legal representation, prolonged pre-trial detention, and harsh custodial sentences for minor offences. An overreliance on imprisonment has led to overcrowded prisons and worsened inequality in the justice system. Non-custodial sentencing offers a more equitable and rehabilitative alternative.

The Equitable Justice and Sentencing Reform Programme aims to strengthen the justice system by promoting inclusive, fair, and humane legal practices. Central to this is advocating for access to effective representation for the poor and vulnerable, and the adoption and institutionalisation of non-custodial sentences as a sustainable path toward legal reform and justice delivery.

Objectives

1

Expand access to legal aid for poor and vulnerable populations.

2

Promote non-custodial sentences as alternatives for minor offences.

3

Support legal and policy reforms to institutionalise non-custodial options.

4

Increase public awareness of the legal rights of vulnerable groups.

Key Activities

  • Facilitating legal representation for the poor and vulnerable.
  • Engaging justice sector stakeholders to advance non-custodial sentencing policies.
  • Advancing and supporting the development of rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for non-custodial offenders.
  • Using media and community platforms to educate the public on access to justice and sentencing alternative.

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