LexisNexis Global

As I have observed the various disciplines interact at this ground breaking inaugural forum - thought leaders from diverse and a comprehensive list of disciplines - medicine, faith, military, business and finance, law, the arts and culture, human rights, environment, labor and government - there are two truths which continue to resonate above all else - we are all stakeholders in ensuring a well developed Rule of Law, and we all have a unique role to play. Clearly Rule of Law is not just a 'legal issue"!

 

As a lawyer and business leader, I ask what is the role of business as it relates to Rule of Law. While there is still a great deal to digest, business has a vital role to play in this multi-disciplinary discussion. Certainly, business looks for stability, consistency, access to fair and independent political and judicial systems for itself and its employees and other stakeholders. We want to protect our assets and our people. When these things come together, there is the opportunity to create wealth and provide economic well being for our employees and the citizens and the regions in which the business operates. Business is key to the creation of wealth because wealth, economic well being and economic development is only created by the work place - the place that business provides and employees come to earn a living for themselves and their families. In order for a vibrant workplace to be sustainable over the long haul and provide stability for all of the stakeholders, it is absolutely dependent upon a developed Rule of Law. There is much work to do.