Title: Beninese justice moves to guarantee access for all
Introduction: In Benin, the Court for the Repression of Economic Offenses and Terrorism (Criet) demonstrates innovation by organizing mobile hearings. This decision aims to facilitate access to justice for litigants who are poor or who live far from the seat of the Court. In this article, we will explore the concept of mobile courts and the benefits they offer when it comes to justice for all.
The challenge of lack of accessibility to justice
In Benin, many litigants find themselves in difficult situations, in particular because of their geographical distance from Criet’s headquarters in Porto-Novo. For these people without financial resources, attending a hearing becomes a real obstacle. Without money for transportation and accommodation, they are often forced to give up their rights.
The innovative solution: mobile audiences
Faced with this challenge, Criet decided to adopt an innovative approach by organizing mobile audiences. These hearings take place outside the official building of the Court, in locations closer to the litigants concerned. This initiative helps eliminate geographic and financial barriers by providing easier access to justice.
A response to moral offenses
Criet’s mobile courts are mainly devoted to cases of rape, forced marriage and harassment committed within the country. These offenses, often unknown and underestimated, require a rapid and effective judicial response. By organizing mobile audiences, Criet sends a strong message in favor of protecting the rights of victims and the fight against these forms of crime.
A commitment to justice for all
In just one year, more than 500 cases were brought before Criet, demonstrating the extent of this problem. The first mobile courts are scheduled for November 27 and will take place regularly in different locations across the country. This initiative demonstrates Criet’s commitment to guaranteeing access to justice for all, regardless of their geographic location or financial means.
Conclusion: Criet’s decision to organize mobile hearings in Benin represents an important step towards more accessible and equitable justice. By eliminating geographical and financial obstacles, this initiative will allow disadvantaged litigants to assert their rights and actively participate in the fight against moral offenses. Hopefully, other countries will follow this path and implement similar measures to ensure justice for all.