The weakening or uneven application of the rule of law has the greatest impact on ordinary people, the Commonwealth has warned, as Fiji prepares to host senior legal leaders from across the bloc.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said the erosion of legal protections undermines peace, stability and development, particularly for everyday citizens.
“Where the rule of law is weakened or unevenly applied, the impact is felt most sharply by ordinary people,” Ms Botchwey said.
Her comments come ahead of the Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting, which Fiji will host in Nadi from 9 to 12 February 2026.
About 150 delegates, including attorneys-general, justice ministers and solicitors-general from 56 Commonwealth countries, are expected to attend.
Ms Botchwey said the rule of law remains a cornerstone of the Commonwealth Charter, stressing that it requires practical commitment rather than rhetoric.
She said the meeting in Fiji would focus on strengthening justice systems so they remain inclusive, responsive and capable of protecting vulnerable communities in a rapidly changing world.
Ministers are expected to discuss ways to improve access to justice, strengthen legal institutions and ensure laws continue to safeguard democracy, livelihoods and safe communities across the Commonwealth.
