Human Rights and the Pursuit of Justice
The International Bridges to Justice: Who We Are and How to Help the Cause
By Kanak Vanum
In an age where access to justice remains a pressing global challenge, Karen Tse, a visionary human rights advocate and attorney, founded the International Bridges to Justice (IBJ) program. With a steadfast commitment to protecting the rights of the most vulnerable individuals in societies worldwide, Tse's organization has made significant strides in promoting fair and effective justice systems. This article explores the remarkable work of the International Bridges to Justice program, highlighting its mission, initiatives, and impact on the global fight for justice.
In 1994, a twelve-year-old boy in Cambodia was tortured and denied access to counsel. He was accused of stealing a bicycle, which is not classified as a major crime. Still, he was tortured.
We often think of torture as being political or reserved for the worst of the worst, but a significant majority (~95%+) of torture today is not for political prisoners. It is for people who are in broken legal systems. Because torture is the cheapest form of investigation – much cheaper than a sophisticated legal system – it happens more often and in more places than one would think.
At first, I had no idea that torture as an investigative tactic was so widespread. I found out that 113 developing countries use torture, and 93 of these countries have all passed laws that say an individual has a right to a lawyer and a right not to be tortured. Eighty percent of the two hundred thousand people in these underfunded jails and legal systems are without a lawyer.
In 2000, International Bridges to Justice was formed with the specific mission of ending torture as an investigative tool and implementing due process rights in 93 countries by placing trained lawyers at an early stage in police stations and courtrooms. The mission of the International Bridges to Justice program is to safeguard basic legal rights and ensure equal access to justice for all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic background or circumstances.
Recognizing that millions of people face arbitrary detention, torture, and other forms of injustice, Tse and her team work tirelessly to build sustainable and humane justice systems in countries where they are most needed. In February 2024, I became a part of this team.
IBJ places a strong emphasis on promoting gender justice. Recognizing that women and girls often face unique challenges within the justice system, the organization works to empower female legal professionals, provides training on gender-sensitive legal practices, and advocates for gender equality in the administration of justice.
The impact of the International Bridges to Justice program is far-reaching. Through its collaborative efforts with local partners and justice institutions, IBJ has successfully trained thousands of legal professionals, built sustainable justice systems, and impacted the lives of millions.
By promoting fair trials, reducing torture, and combating corruption, IBJ has contributed to the strengthening of the rule of law and the protection of human rights globally. Karen Tse's visionary leadership and the International Bridges to Justice program have played a significant role in advancing access to justice and protecting human rights worldwide. Through its innovative initiatives and collaborative approach, IBJ continues to empower communities, legal professionals, and justice institutions, fostering lasting change in countries plagued by injustice.
As we look towards the future, the work of IBJ serves as an inspiring example of how dedication, innovation, and collaboration can pave the way for a more just and equitable world. So, we urge you to sign our petition today. Simply go to https://www.ibj.org/ to learn more and sign our petition!
