The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ)
ILRAJ seeks to defend the rule of law, improve the human rights situation to ensure that the human rights of all persons in Sierra Leone.
Who We Are
The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ) is an independent non-partisan public policy research and educational think tank established to explain, monitor and contribute to the protection of human rights and the rule of law; preserve, study, and enhance accountability and access to justice; increase awareness and understanding of and promote, women’s and children’s rights, youth justice and respect for human rights; promote capacity Building amongst women, the youth, disadvantaged communities and groups.
Fosters innovative academic research and scholarship; undertake research for policy purposes and law reform sensitization, litigation and advocacy to enforce the rights of individuals communities and disadvantaged groups; offer expertise to train human rights leaders and provide legal advice and expertise to support governments, quasi government bodies, civil society organizations and other institutions.
ILRAJ seeks to defend the rule of law, improve the human rights situation to ensure that the human rights of all persons in Sierra Leone is respected in line with the country's international obligations and to promote youth justice accountability and access to justice.
Why Choose Us
Research
To act as researchers in national, transnational and international law.To support and conduct research, survey, statistics, and experiments on issues of legal and social importance and matters of national and international interest.
Consultancy
To act as consultants and advise governments, national, international NGO’s companies, civil society and any other organization or individual on law, policy, security and matters of justice
Law Reform
To promote and support law reform and law revision in particular relating to the fundamental human rights of especially the vulnerable, disadvantaged and marginalized members of society
Awareness & Education
To own and engage in the publishing and printing of books, magazines, newspapers, newsletters, periodicals, circulars and other literally undertakings aimed at creating awareness;
Our Mission
ILRAJ aims to understand, explore, evaluate, shape policy, advance practice and strengthen the rule of law and accountability in order to make the promotion of and respect for human rights a part of our culture.
The ILRAJ aims to address inequalities and protect, promote and entrench human rights, its values and freedoms through the provision of training, education, dissemination of information, litigation, pro bono legal counsel, research, internship, activism and advocacy. It also seeks to empower women, youths and the vulnerable, disadvantaged and marginalized by emphasizing on participation, non-discrimination, empowerment and respect for human rights.
ILRAJ believes in the universality and inalienability of human rights, the indivisibility, interdependence and interrelatedness of these rights, and the basic premise of equality over discrimination.
Our Values
Integrity & Professionalism
We always maintain a consistent and unwavering adherence to high ethical standards and values while maintaining integrity. We understand what it means to be honest and trustworthy. It also entails being truthful and honest with a client, as well as being realistic about expectations and outcomes. In all cases, integrity means never jeopardizing the client's interests. Clients are relieved to know that we are always looking out for their best interests.
Confidentiality
Our primary value is to maintain the confidentiality of any information pertaining to our clients, their work, or any related information that comes to our attention, whether through the client or any other means.
Inclusiveness & Respect
We value equity, inclusion, and dignity for all.
Innovation
We are problem solvers who think outside the box. We are constantly debating which problems need to be solved and brainstorming solutions. We're inventive. We enjoy new ideas and inventions, but we are equally content to follow a well-worn path. Ingenuity is about using your creativity and insight to find the best solution, not the most original one.
Collaboration & Commitment
We believe that working together will allow us to accomplish more than working alone. We collaborate more effectively and efficiently. A single vision can be powerful, but when we share our knowledge, efforts, and work openly, we receive more than we give. We seek out diverse viewpoints and backgrounds, avoid silos, and strive to give and receive insights with gratitude and an open mind.
Open Communication
We are straightforward, honest, and respectful. We deal with problems as they arise, communicating with our values in mind. We provide on-time, transparent billing with no surprises.
Trust and Empowerment
We motivate and inspire those around us. We prefer to be mentally engaged and invested rather than distant or just present. We treat everyone with dignity and respect, and we help each other whenever possible. We freely share knowledge and encourage one another to reach our full potential.
News & Announcements
THE IMPORTANCE OF TIME IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE: CASE STUDY OF SIERRA LEONE’S JUDICIARY
by Adewale Showers Executive Summary This article examines the crucial role of timeliness in the administration of justice, focusing on the judiciary in Sierra Leone.
⚖️ ILRAJ Engages School Going-Pupils ⚖️
On Friday, 23rd May 2025, The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ) welcomed pupils from 12 secondary schools across Freetown for a
SIERRA LEONE’S HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITMENT: A CALL FOR RATIFICATION OF THE AFRICAN COURT PROTOCOL AND DEPOSITION OF ARTICLE 34(6) DECLARATION GRANTING ACCESS TO JUSTICE FOR ALL
On December 15, 2017, two healthcare workers who survived the deadly consequences of Ebola, along with the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law (CARL),
Call for the Resignation or Suspension of Dr. Denis Moinina Sandy, Minister of Works, Pending Investigation into Allegations of Fraudulent Conduct
Press Statement Call for the Resignation or Suspension of Dr. Denis Moinina Sandy, Minister of Works, Pending Investigation into Allegations of Fraudulent Conduct We, the
Property Rights and Constitutional Safeguards in Sierra Leone: The Legal Implications of Pratt v. Senessie
Introduction This article explores whether Theophilus Pratt & Another (hereinafter referred to as plaintiffs) v. Dr. Turad Senessie & Others (hereinafter referred to as defendants)
Case Report: Ruling on Recusal in The State v. Ikubolaji Nicol
Supreme Court of Sierra Leone Judgment Delivered on 12th February 2025 Coram – Hon. Justice A.M. Bangura JSC (Presiding), Hon. Justice A.B. Halloway JSC, Hon. Justice