Where justice is denied, where poverty is enforced, where ignorance prevails, and where any one class is made to feel that society is an organized conspiracy to oppress, rob and degrade them, neither person nor property will be safe. Frederick Douglass
The famous legal maxim “Justice delayed is justice denied” underscores the critical importance of timely justice in any fair and functional society. Attributed to 19th century British Prime Minister William E. Gladstone and often quoted by legal scholars, activists, and judges, the phrase serves as a reminder that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done swiftly.
A poignant example of the adage “Justice delayed is justice denied” is evident in the prolonged pursuit of accountability for alleged war crimes in Palestine, particularly concerning the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigations into actions by both Israeli and Palestinian. Also the case of Dr Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist whose story has become emblematic of the adage “justice delayed is justice denied.” A fair legal system must be efficient, transparent, and accessible. Timely justice is not just a legal requirement; it is a moral imperative and a cornerstone of a just society. For true justice to prevail, it must be both fair and swift, only then can the scales of justice remain balanced.
It is essential that justice be done, and it is equally vital that justice not be confused with revenge, for the two are wholly different.— Oscar Aria
In March 2021, the ICC initiated a formal investigation into alleged crimes committed in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, encompassing the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem. This decision followed the Pre-Trial Chamber’s affirmation of the Court’s jurisdiction over these areas. However, progress has been markedly slow, with significant delays attributed to political pressures and challenges to the Court’s jurisdiction. It wasn’t until November 2024 that the ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity during military operations in Gaza. These charges include the use of starvation as a method of warfare and intentional attacks on civilians. The delay in issuing these warrants, despite longstanding reports of violations, has been a point of contention among human rights advocates.
The protracted nature of the ICC’s proceedings has had tangible consequences. Victims and their families have endured extended periods without redress, leading to a sense of abandonment and skepticism toward international legal mechanisms. The ongoing violence and lack of timely accountability have exacerbated humanitarian crises and undermined faith in the rule of law. In March 2025, widespread protests erupted in Balochistan following the hijacking of the Jaffar Express train. Families seeking to identify victims’ bodies faced police violence, leading to further unrest. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) reported that police fired on peaceful protesters, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. Protests spread to Karachi and internationally, with the Baloch diaspora organizing demonstrations in Europe.
Reform school curriculums to teach human rights, tolerance, and critical thinking, and raise awareness in rural and marginalized communities about their rights. Use art, storytelling, and media to change social attitudes that enable injustice. Stay updated on current events and injustices happening locally and globally. This allows you to understand the nuances and complexities involved. Educate yourself on the laws, human rights, and social issues in your country to know where changes are needed. Share what you learn with others, so the knowledge spreads.
Pakistan’s parliament passed a controversial bill granting the government extensive control over social media, including imprisoning users for spreading disinformation. Human rights activists argue that the law suppresses freedom of speech and targets dissenting voices. Journalists have faced intimidation, harassment, and surveillance for perceived criticism of the government, leading many to self-censor. Over 50 prominent Afghan women’s rights activists sheltering in Pakistan are facing deportation and fear imprisonment or death under Taliban rule.
The Pakistani government has pledged to deport millions of Afghan nationals, citing security concerns. Advocacy groups, including Amnesty International, criticize Pakistan’s actions, labeling the deportations a death sentence. In April 2025, protests erupted in Sindh’s Babarloi region against the federal government’s plan to construct six new canals on the Indus River under the Green Pakistan initiative. Lawyers, nationalist organizations, and civil society groups led sit-ins, arguing that the project threatened Sindh’s water resources and violated the 1991 Water Accord. The protests caused significant disruptions, including a province-wide strike.
“We first crush people to the earth, and then claim the right of trampling on them forever, because they are prostrate.” ― Lydia Maria Child
I just want to say that every person has a right to speak. So we take it positively and try to resolve the problems. That’s why we should support local NGOs working on human rights, legal aid, and education. Encourage peaceful protests and civic engagement to raise awareness and demand accountability. Use digital platforms to amplify voices, document abuses, and connect activists nationwide.
Reform school curriculums to teach human rights, tolerance, and critical thinking, and raise awareness in rural and marginalized communities about their rights. Use art, storytelling, and media to change social attitudes that enable injustice. Stay updated on current events and injustices happening locally and globally. This allows you to understand the nuances and complexities involved. Educate yourself on the laws, human rights, and social issues in your country to know where changes are needed. Share what you learn with others, so the knowledge spreads.
