In the Declaration of the High-level Meeting on the Rule of Law, Heads of State and Government emphasized the right of equal access to justice for all , including members of vulnerable groups, and reaffirmed the commitment of Member States to taking all necessary steps to provide fair, transparent, effective, non-discriminatory and accountable justice services. United Nations activities in support of Member States’ efforts to ensure access to justice, including informal justice mechanisms, are a core component of the work in the area of rule of law.
The strengthening of capacities of national authorities is essential to ensure the sustainability of international support. In September 2012, the Secretary-General chose the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to lead the Global Focal Point for Police, Justice and Corrections Areas in the Rule of Law in Post-conflict and other Crisis Situations (GFP). Its aim is to provide better police, justice and corrections services from UN Headquarters to UN peacekeeping missions, special political missions and non-mission settings.
Security sector reform aims at improving safety through enhancing the effectiveness and accountability of security institutions controlled by civilians and operating according to human rights and the rule of law. The United Nations provides assistance to States in strengthening the oversight, accountability, management and financial sustainability of the security sector.