Briefing Paper

Access to Justice in Africa Comparisons between Sierra Leone, Tanzania and Zambia

“The provision of justice represents a significant challenge to developing countries, not least Sierra Leone, Tanzania
and Zambia. Where justice is apparent, and the rule of law upheld, the processes of development and democratisation are supported. Where justice is not evident, these processes are undermined. In order for justice to prevail, everybody should have
equal access to the mechanisms of justice. Barriers such as illiteracy, poverty and cumbersome legal mechanisms present long-term challenges to the provision of justice. Such barriers serve to further marginalise
social groups such as the indigent, women, children and the disabled.”