IJM has a proven model to strengthen justice systems for freedom and protection.

Collaborative Casework 

At IJM, we are committed to working on specific cases of violence to secure freedom and justice for victims. In addition to helping the “one,” casework also identifies gaps within the justice system and provides hands-on training opportunities with local authorities and partners.

Targeted System Transformation 

Based on insights from casework and an assessment of justice system effectiveness, we design a targeted program to address the weak areas. This may include training of the police, prosecutors and judges. It might include establishing trauma-informed practices, so survivors are willing to rely on the justice system. It might involve setting up a special police unit or court to focus attention on specific crimes. The set of tools are the same, but the application is unique for each local context.

Survivor Empowerment 

Local advocacy is critical to bring attention to the brutality of violence in the local community and increase pressure on justice officials to be part of the solution. There are no better advocates than survivors, as they have the credibility and lived experience that inspire action. Empowering survivors is critical for scaling impact.

Equipping Partners 

To accelerate impact and develop sustainable solutions, IJM staff work with local partners to help implement programs and engage community leaders, international agencies and corporations to advocate for strengthening the justice system.

Measuring the Impact 

IJM invests in third-party assessments to determine the prevalence of crimes and the effectiveness of the justice system. This is critical for designing our programs and having outside validation on the level of impact at the end of a project.