Researchers and Experts Gather in Toronto for the 2024 International Access to Justice Forum

First photo: Chief Justice Michael Tulloch; second photo: Attorney General Doug Downey with Dean Trevor Farrow and Professor Suzie Chiodo; third photo: Justice Andromache Karakatsanis.

From October 23-25, 2024, the vibrant city of Toronto became a hub for justice advocates, scholars, practitioners, and policymakers who gathered at Osgoode Hall Law School‘s Osgoode Professional Development centre. The conference welcomed participants from around the globe to engage in meaningful conversations on transforming justice systems to enhance accessibility, equity, and fairness for all.

Keynote remarks from the Honourable Michael Tulloch ‘89, Chief Justice of Ontario; the Honourable Andromache Karakatsanis ’83, ’23 (LLD), Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada; and the Honourable Doug Downey, Attorney General of Ontario, set a powerful tone for the conference. Their remarks highlighted the critical importance of improving access to justice in today’s society.

This year’s program, available on the Forum’s website, offered a diverse lineup of panelists who discussed pressing issues such as the role of technology in justice delivery, systemic barriers affecting marginalized communities, and innovative strategies to make law more accessible. A key theme throughout the conference was the importance of community engagement and policy reform in achieving access to justice.

The success of this year’s Forum was made possible by the leadership of conference co-chairs Dean Trevor Farrow and Professors Suzanne Chiodo and Patricia McMahon, who brought together a dynamic group of voices dedicated to advancing the global access to justice movement.

Thank you to everyone who attended, presented, and contributed to the Forum’s impactful discussions. We look forward to continuing this vital work and building upon the insights gained over these memorable three days.

Stay tuned for details on next year’s conference, as well as recordings and materials from this year’s conference which will soon be available on the website.