Concept Summary  

The need for a people-centered approach in the criminal justice system is underscored by the global commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16. Traditional justice systems have often prioritized institutional goals over the needs and rights of individuals, leading to significant barriers to access and perpetuating systemic inequalities. This misalignment not only undermines public trust but also fails to address the diverse experiences of those affected by the system. 

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A people-centered approach is particularly vital for the criminal justice system because it directly addresses issues of accessibility, fairness, and responsiveness. By focusing on the needs and experiences of individuals, this approach enhances the effectiveness of justice delivery by ensuring that services are tailored to the specific needs of diverse communities. It recognizes that requires a holistic understanding of the underlying factors contributing to crime and conflict. By breaking out of the silos, we can address the root causes of legal issues and create a more comprehensive and sustainable solution. 

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This session will discuss current practices across various institutions—such as police forces, courts, and correctional facilities—that exemplify this approach in the Asia-Pacific region. Key challenges in adopting a people-centered framework will also be addressed, including institutional resistance and the need for cultural shifts within organizations. Panelists will share insights on overcoming these obstacles through collaborative efforts and innovative practices that prioritize human dignity and rehabilitation. 

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Ultimately, this session aims to inspire a vision for a redefined justice system that is inclusive and responsive to community needs. By fostering dialogue among practitioners, policymakers, and advocates, we can pave the way for towards a justice system that is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves, paving the way for meaningful change and a more just society for all. 

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Objectives 

• Highlight the fundamental reasons for transitioning from an institution-centered to a people-centered approach in the criminal justice system, emphasizing the urgency of prioritizing the experiences, needs, and rights of individuals and communities 

• Showcase current practices and initiatives across various institutions—such as law enforcements, public prosecutors, courts, corrections, in the Asia-Pacific region—that exemplify the effective application of a people-centered approach 

• Address key challenges in adopting a people-centered framework and share actionable insights and strategies for overcoming barriers 

• Inspire a collective vision for a redefined justice system that is inclusive and responsive, encouraging dialogue among practitioners, policymakers, and advocates to facilitate meaningful reforms 

 

Questions 

• What are the key reasons for transitioning from an institution-centered to a people-centered approach in the criminal justice system, and why is this shift particularly urgent in today’s, and APAC, context? 

• Can you share specific examples of successful initiatives or practices within law enforcements, public prosecutors, courts, corrections, in the Asia-Pacific region that illustrate the effective application of a people-centered approach? 

• What are the main challenges faced by institutions in adopting a people-centered framework, and what actionable strategies can be implemented to overcome these barriers? 

• How can we foster collaboration among various justice institutions to create a more cohesive and responsive system that prioritizes the needs of individuals and communities? 

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Format/Methodology 

The session will consist of two components: a panel discussion and a Q&A segment. It will begin with a 60-minute moderated conversation featuring 4-5 panelists who will address the guiding questions outlined above. The panelists will include practitioners from various criminal justice institutions, such as law enforcement, public prosecution, courts, and corrections, representing the Asia-Pacific region. The second part will be a 30-minute Q&A session, during which the panelists will invite questions and engage with the audience. ​

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About the People-Centered Justice Conference  

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangkok Regional Hub, the Thailand Institute of Justice (TIJ), the United Nations Environment Programme  (UNEP) Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, and UN Women Asia and the Pacific, in collaboration with the World Justice Project, the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), and the Court of Justice of Thailand, will host the conference “Achieving Just Societies: Inclusive Justice Pathways for People and Planet in Asia and the Pacific” This event is scheduled to take place in Bangkok from November 11-13, 2024. 
 
The conference will serve as a dynamic platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, address challenges, and explore innovative, data-driven, and evidence-based approaches to enhancing equal and inclusive access to justice for all through people-centered methods, including in crisis-affected settings. In line with a human rights-based approach and the 'leave no one behind' principles, the event aims to foster partnerships and promote robust access to justice frameworks that better prioritize human rights, as well as the justice needs and emerging priorities of individuals and communities across the Asia and Pacific region. 

 
Ultimately, the conference aspires to reinforce a collective regional commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring equal and inclusive access to justice, and protecting human rights, all of which are foundational to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in Agenda 2030.