Will the COVID-19 Crisis Help Us Trace a Path Towards More Equitable Access to Justice?

Abstract

COVID-19 infections continue to rise, and every segment of society has been significantly disrupted. While there is advocacy for adherence to the rule of law and human rights principles in the pandemic response, there remains a lack of attention towards access to justice specifically. It is already clear that COVID-19 has impacted access to justice for all, and especially for vulnerable groups – although to what extent is not yet known. As justice systems have rapidly adapted new technologies and innovations in response to the pandemic, we have the opportunity to ensure our “new normal” enhances, rather than prevents, more equitable access to justice for the most vulnerable. This article is a call to action urging justice systems to seize this unique opportunity to enhance equitable access to justice.