Human rights are the fundamental rights that a person has because of his or her humanity. They depend on their assignment to a particular legal instrument. These rights are inherent and should therefore be recognized and respected. Traditionally, human rights are generally demanded against the State. Over time, however, it becomes clear that individuals are also implicated in human rights violations. In recent years, research has been conducted suggesting that about 40% of all human rights violations are committed by individuals and that, therefore, legitimate claims can be made against violations against individuals. There are demands for cessation of violations, compensation and reparation. Tanzania`s new Legal Aid Act 2017 was signed and published on 3 March 2017. This new legislation officially recognizes paralegals at the national level. The paper analyses Tanzania`s Legal Aid Act and its effectiveness in carrying out the administration of justice, particularly with regard to the right to legal representation. This Act replaces the former Legal Aid Act (Criminal Procedure Act), which was applicable only to criminal proceedings, and the Legal Aid Act is also maintained in civil proceedings.
The law also recognizes paralegals who were not previously recognized by law. The paper analyzes the content of the law by examining its effectiveness in achieving justice in Tanzania.