BIC Showcase: Beyond the lawyers - why rule of law matters to civil society

Much programming has been done on the rule of law, the separation of powers, pillars of democracy and other issues that have transcended national boundaries. What has been missing from the discussion is an emphasis on the grassroots and the need not just for more civic education, but for a more prominent role by bars beyond the issuance of statements. In short, bar associations need to make concrete the body of scholarship and legal writings. Without public understanding of the integration of basic knowledge of civics and how it relates to the rule of law, the current paralysis will continue. Bars – and all lawyers, for that matter – are uniquely positioned to engage with the public, and not just government.

The panel not only discussed these issues, but presented practical guidance. It focused on the legal, social, economic and historical importance of the rule of law and its challenges, and invited audience participation with specific questions and scenarios.