IDLO is the only international intergovernmental organization exclusively devoted to promoting the rule of law and sustainable development. They have experience working in more than 90 countries around the world with various legal systems. Established in 1988, IDLO has had United Nations Observer Status since 2001.
IDLO provides technical legal assistance and capacity development at the national and local level, often in the poorest and most insecure parts of the world. It works in partnership with local actors and with different legal systems in an enabling and empowering—rather than prescriptive or directive—way.
Vision:
A world in which every person lives with dignity and under the rule of law
Mission:
To enable governments, empower people and strengthen institutions to realize justice, peace and sustainable development
IDLO Values:
People focused. They strive to empower people to claim their rights and build their trust in the rule of law
Gender sensitive. They ensure that all their programs are gender-informed
Context specific. They take into account political dynamics and needs of justice seekers
Local ownership. They align their assistance with local priorities, seek local ownership and work closely with local partners.
Legal pluralism. They engage with formal legal systems as well as informal justice.
Transparency and accountability. They work to enhance transparency and accountability to their partners, beneficiaries and governing bodies.
Human rights. They are committed to achieve their goals through a human rights-based approach.
Since its establishment in 1983, IDLO has worked with over 20,000 legal professionals in 175 countries. Its growing worldwide network – consisting of 47 independent alumni associations and a roster of some 2,500 experts – gives the organization a unique possibility to draw on expertise from around the world.
IDLO was granted Observer Status by the United Nations General Assembly in 2001. It is supported financially by voluntary contributions from governments, multilateral organizations, private foundations and the private sector.
IDLO has its headquarters in Rome, a branch office in The Hague, liaison offices for the United Nations in New York and Geneva, and country offices for Afghanistan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Somalia, South Sudan and Tajikistan.
IDLO has extensive experience in countries emerging from conflict or striving towards democracy. Increasingly it is also working in emerging economies and middle-income countries to strengthen their legal capacity for sustainable development and economic opportunity.
Creating a culture of justice entails responsive legal institutions, empowered citizens, and a legal system that enables fair outcomes.
