Santo Domingo.- The 29th World Law Congress launched in Santo Domingo, gathering 2,500 participants from 87 countries to discuss the defense of the rule of law and the role of younger generations in upholding democratic values. Held at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD), the event was attended by Dominican Vice President Raquel Peña, former presidents Iván Duque and Leonel Fernández, and other national and international leaders.
Javier Cremades, president of the World Jurist Association, warned that democracy is “under siege” due to polarization, misinformation, and institutional tensions. He emphasized the importance of ensuring public power operates within constitutional and legal frameworks centered on human dignity. Over 1,600 young participants are attending, highlighting the event’s commitment to intergenerational dialogue and renewed civic engagement.
Running through Tuesday, the congress features ten academic forums and 54 panels covering topics such as climate change, artificial intelligence, human rights, freedom of expression, and gender equality. During the closing ceremony, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor will receive the prestigious World Peace & Liberty Award.