Justice is not static. It is shaped by global events, cultural contexts, and political will. Following last year’s focus on democracy and security, we now turn our attention to the role of justice as both a foundation and a pathway for peace. Without justice, democracy cannot flourish; without trust in institutions, security is fragile. As explained in SDG 16, “Equal access to justice is essential for protecting the rights of individuals, resolving disputes, and ensuring that vulnerable populations are not marginalized or mistreated….Institutions that do not function according to legitimate laws are prone to arbitrariness and abuse of power, and less capable of delivering public service to everyone.” This year, we invite students to consider justice not only as a legal concept, but as a continuously evolving principle that protects rights, encourages trust, and ensures accountability at every level of society. 

In a world marked by an increase in polarisation, conflict, and social unrest, trust in institutions is on the decline. This year’s theme aims to encourage delegates to consider how strengthening  the rule of law and promoting human rights can reinforce trust. From access to fair trials and equal treatment under the law, to accountability in governance and reparations for historical injustice, our debates will explore the multifaceted pursuit of justice in motion.