Social Justice for a More Equal World

In the next 50 years, we will have to confront the escalating dynamics of social inequities across the globe.

As lawyers, will have to address the consequences of rising inequality within our societies. This may require revising certain aspects of our healthcare, education, or welfare systems, whose long-term sustainability is already a subject of pressing concern. As our societies age, we will also have to grapple with age discrimination and elder rights.

It will also be crucial to tackle the digital divide. Digital innovations can be a great leveler, democratizing access to opportunities, but they can also exacerbate social inequalities. We will thus have to deploy effective regulatory and institutional strategies to make sure that nobody is left behind.

The legal quest for equality and social justice will also have to address the gap between developed and developing nations. As lawyers, we cannot turn our back to societies grappling with extreme poverty and hunger. Besides promoting human rights throughout the globe, we will have to address the causes and effects of increasing migration flows. These flows are likely to intensify as a result of climate change and geopolitical conflicts.

As we navigate through the next 50 years, the role of lawyers will be crucial in addressing these important issues.