Justice, as the opposite of impunity, is a prerequisite for sustainable and stable peace. Human rights defenders, lawyers and activists from the Middle East seek to hold human rights’ perpetrators accountable. Where the perpetrators are state actors protected by political immunity, human rights defenders resort to justice mechanisms abroad, such as through the principle of universal jurisdiction.

For justice to last, each country has to follow its individual path to justice, recognizing its local voices and diversity. If societal groups feel excluded from justice processes, not justice but another case of injustice will be experienced. 

Therefore, the program justice and accountability supports initiatives that demand accountability and formulate visions for a future by bringing together different actors on their paths to justice. International dialogue, documentation and advocacy initiatives are at heart of this work.