Melanesian cultural traditions to use this base in their problem-solving approach. This
sort of thing is being trialled in several places, including in the UK.
There has been significant change in recent times with some politicians of all shades in
New Zealand, and many legal professional groups such as Law Society committees,
acknowledging the need for a focus on the high volume end of legal and court
processes. What are we doing across the region? I know that in many Pacific nations
there is little spare capacity. Resources are stretched just to keep the existing structure
operational. But if we lack the courage and vision to try new approaches, our ability to
deliver justice will undoubtedly be reduced.
Throughout the Pacific there is the opportunity to share ideas and work together to
develop ways in which, to return to my starting point, the promise of the rule of law in
the protection of human rights and individual liberties is attainable for all and accessible
to every citizen.