Chief Justice Chandrachud Advocates Global South Collaboration for Equal Justice Access
The Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, addressed the inaugural session of the first Regional Conference on Access to Legal Aid, emphasizing the need for collaboration among legal systems across Global South countries. The two-day conference, aimed at tackling hurdles to quality legal aid in these nations, commenced in New Delhi. Organized by the National Legal Services Authority, International Legal Foundation, UN Development Programme, and UNICEF, the event garnered participation from 69 countries.
Justice Chandrachud highlighted the historical dominance of Global North voices in discussions on human rights and justice, which often fail to account for diverse contexts. Emphasizing the imperative to amplify the justice needs of underrepresented populations, he envisioned the conference as a pivotal platform fostering engagement and solidarity among participating countries, strengthening bonds and cooperation.
He underscored the evolving concept of justice beyond sovereign boundaries in today’s interconnected world. Referring to the ‘Global South’ as a construct based on political, geopolitical, and economic similarities among nations rather than purely geographical delineation, he stressed the shared historical legacies of imperialism and colonialism. Justice Chandrachud noted a shift in wealth dynamics towards the Asia Pacific and advocated collaboration rooted in acknowledging unique needs, extending beyond economic alliances towards prioritizing cooperation between legal systems.
Addressing barriers to equal access to justice, the Chief Justice highlighted complexities within legal processes, disparities in power, judicial delays, and systemic biases against marginalized communities. He emphasized the role of technology in enhancing access, citing the Supreme Court’s initiatives like live-streaming proceedings and measures toward inclusivity, such as gender-neutral facilities and support for diverse communities within the courtroom.
Justice Chandrachud concluded by emphasizing the judiciary’s potential to bolster access to justice, citing innovative practices developed by countries in the Global South, including India. He urged administrative collaboration among legal systems in these nations to augment judicial cooperation and widen access to justice. The conference sets a precedent for collaborative efforts aimed at transcending boundaries and fostering inclusive justice frameworks among Global South nations, marking a significant stride toward equitable legal access for all.
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