Justice as a Public Service

Effective justice systems underpin the rule of law, trust in public institutions, social development and economic productivity. This report provides the first cross-country assessment of the implementation of the OECD Recommendation on Access to Justice and People-Centred Justice Systems. Covering OECD and Justice Action Coalition member and partner countries, it combines evidence on people’s justice problems, pathways and outcomes with analysis of the policies and institutional arrangements of the justice system. The findings show that justice problems remain widespread and consequential, while significant gaps persist in tailoring assistance and co-ordinating across justice pathways. Although countries are making progress in digitalisation, service innovation and user engagement, more can be done to use legal needs evidence for policymaking and implementation, invest in research and development, and link resources and outcomes. The report highlights the need to move beyond institution-centred approaches towards justice as a responsive public service, supported by stronger data and evidence, integrated service delivery, outcome-oriented planning and financing, and continuous learning and improvement.