Revisiting the Role of Law in Promoting Human Rights and Social Justice in Contemporary Society

Abstract

This article aims to revisit and critically analyze the role of law in promoting human rights and social justice in contemporary society. The central problem addressed is the persistent gap between normative legal frameworks that proclaim equality, justice, and protection of human rights, and the empirical reality in which structural inequality, discrimination, and weak law enforcement remain prevalent. Although legal reform continues to expand in various domains constitutional guarantees, judicial mechanisms, and international human rights instruments, there is still a fundamental question regarding the effectiveness of law as a transformative tool in achieving substantive justice. This study employs a qualitative socio-legal research method, integrating doctrinal analysis of legal norms with empirical examination of social practices and institutional performance. Through literature review, case studies, and analysis of policy implementation, the research seeks to understand how law interacts with social power structures and the extent to which legal institutions contribute to social change. The findings indicate that the role of law in promoting human rights and social justice is significantly influenced by political will, institutional integrity, and public participation. Law proves effective when supported by responsive and accountable governance, community empowerment, and cultural transformation toward equality and inclusivity. Conversely, law tends to become symbolic and ineffective when dominated by elitist political interests, corruption, and weak access to justice. Therefore, strengthening the transformative capacity of law requires a shift from a purely legalistic approach toward a more responsive, participatory, and human-rights–based paradigm.