Bringing the rule of law to life: the IBA educational project in action

Alexia Dubreu

International Bar Association, London

The International Bar Association continues to strengthen its commitment to promoting the rule of law through its Rule of Law Educational Project, a new IBA initiative developed under the leadership of Co-Presidents Jaime Carey and Claudio Visco to engage younger generations in understanding why the rule of law matters in everyday life and to encourage them to play an active role in upholding it throughout their civic lives.

The project

The pilot phase of the IBA Rule of Law Educational Project was launched in seven schools across Denmark, engaging more than ten classes and over 400 students aged 15–19 between 3 March and 4 May 2026.

Launched as part of a broader effort to make legal principles more accessible beyond the legal profession, the project brings together lawyers, educators and students to explore the practical meaning of the rule of law in democratic societies. Through workshops, discussion-based learning and creative collaboration, participants are encouraged to reflect on how legal systems protect rights, uphold fairness and support accountable institutions.

The video series 

A key feature of the project is the IBA rule of law video series, composed of eight short videos illustrating how our everyday lives are affected when the principles that underpin the rule of law are undermined. As part of the programme, the videos were used both as preparatory material for students and during the workshops themselves to support the teaching. During the creative phase of the workshops, students developed their own storylines based on rule of law themes, with the five strongest narratives selected for professional filming. Many participants drew direct inspiration from the video series when shaping their own scenarios.

The project has already demonstrated how the rule of law video series can serve as a bridge between legal professionals and wider society. Through visual storytelling, the IBA has created an accessible educational resource that encourages meaningful discussion about the role of law in maintaining open and just societies.

Conclusion

At a time when the rule of law faces increasing challenges globally, public legal education has become more important than ever. By combining legal expertise with accessible educational tools, such as the rule of law video series, the IBA Rule of Law Educational Project is helping to foster a stronger culture of legal awareness and civic responsibility among future generations.