The Rwandan government and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) have called for stronger governance and rule of law as essential tools for achieving sustainable development and lasting peace. ALSO READ: Rwanda continues to lead Africa in rule of law The call was made during a high-level side event held on the sidelines of the 60th Human Rights Council session in Geneva on Thursday, September 25. The dialogue, themed “Peace, Governance, and the Right to Development: Lessons Learned from the Great Lakes Region and Beyond,” brought together diplomats, experts, and civil society to discuss how accountable governance and inclusive institutions can advance human rights and economic progress. Urujeni Bakuramutsa, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Switzerland and Permanent Representative to the UN Office in Geneva, shared the country's experience in building unity through justice-led reforms. “Systems had to be strengthened and continue to be improved to ensure that the cornerstone of all development is based on the rule of law,” she said. “From justice, development is advancing in step: we are talking about concrete rights such as access to water, electricity, education, financial inclusion, and rising life expectancy with universal health coverage. In early 2024, Rwanda received the renowned Commonwealth Access to Justice Innovation Award, recognizing initiatives such as the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) used in the judicial sector and Abunzi that enhance legal access for vulnerable groups. The recognition underscored the country’s commitment to innovation and to achieving SDG 16.3, which calls for equal access to justice for everyone. “The right to development must remain anchored in justice, inclusivity, and effective governance to achieve lasting peace,” Bakuramutsa said, reaffirming Rwanda’s commitment to rights-based development. ALSO READ: Rule of law: Rwanda maintains top spot in new index The event gathered representatives of Permanent Missions, international NGOs, and the Rwandan community in Switzerland. The discussion aimed to generate actionable recommendations for governments, UN entities, and civil society to advance governance reforms and protect human rights. Trisha Riedy, Manager and Senior Trainer at UNITAR, stressed that development is a basic entitlement. “The right to development is not a privilege; it is a fundamental human right. One that must be realized through accountable governance, inclusive institutions, and the rule of law,” she said. Bojana Coulibaly, Political Discourse Analyst and moderator of the event, said that political courage was necessary to address challenges in fragile regions. “Durable solutions require political courage. Leaders must reject sectarianism and embrace policies that unite rather than divide,” she said. ALSO READ: Minister Musabyimana rallies for joint efforts to address governance loopholes Other panelists reflected on lessons from the Great Lakes region. Alex Mvuka, a researcher and consultant, highlighted Rwanda’s homegrown initiatives like Imihigo (performance contracts) and Ubudehe (community-based social categorization) as proof that inclusive governance can transform societies. Belgian lawyer Bernard Maingain, who has worked extensively in eastern DR Congo, warned that divisive ideologies and impunity continue to fuel instability. He said hatred must be addressed “at all costs” to prevent renewed cycles of violence.
