The ‘Tech the Justice Gap’ Forum, organized by the Hague Institute for Legal Innovation (HILL), concluded lately with the gracious support of the Tunisian government. During the event, the winners of the Justice Innovation Award were announced. Oqoodi, a company from Gaza/Palestine, claimed the first-place position and received a cash prize of 20,000 euros ($21,646). Securing second-place was Awabah from Nigeria, who was granted a financial award of 10,000 euros. In addition, the third-place honor was bestowed upon NaTakallam from Lebanon, earning them a prize of 5,000 euros. In addition, the audience, both those attending the forum in person and participating online, had the opportunity to vote for the winner of the Audience Award. Ultimately, the Audience Award was presented to ToNote from Nigeria.
Read more: 17 startups compete at Tech the Justice Gap forum for innovative legal solutions
The forum witnessed a gathering of both the private and public sectors, along with investors, all united in their dedication to promoting accessible justice for citizens.
Harnessing the power of diversity
During the event, Slim Jrad, representing the Tunisian government, expressed the purpose of the occasion, stating, “This event aims to bridge the justice gap by harnessing the power of diversity, bringing together the government, private sector, civil society organizations, research institutions, innovators, and investors.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration among these entities to address the annual unresolved legal issues, numbering 4.4 million, in Tunisia, with a focus on effectiveness and fairness.
Innovative solutions
Diana, program manager of the Justice Accelerator Program, confirmed that “the participating startups presented innovative solutions to the most pressing justice issues identified in HiiL‘s justice needs surveys in the targeted countries. These issues included finance, employment, social welfare, crime, housing, and justice issues related to projects and small to medium-sized enterprises.”
Addressing justice gaps
For his part, Sam Muller, CEO of HiiL, noted that “By highlighting the role of innovation in addressing justice gaps, the HiiL Institute celebrated 17 startups from Nigeria, Kenya, Tunisia, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, and Palestine. The judging committee, including distinguished judges such as Olivia Gao, senior investment associate, Verod-Kepple Africa Ventures, Hope Wandera, investment analyst, Mercy Corps Venture, and Ghazi Saddem, Organizational Management and Digital Transformation consultant, evaluated the startups based on impact, sustainability, and the feasibility of their business models.”
Achieving justice centered on individuals
Notably, the HiiL Institute was established in 2005 with a specific focus on advancing individual-centered justice. The institute forges notable collaborations with governments, business leaders, and investors, all working together to realize this objective. Additionally, their aim is to develop justice solutions that empower individuals to address or prevent legal issues, thereby making a positive impact on their lives, fostering their well-being, and stimulating economic growth
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