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The IBA’s response to the situation in Ukraine
The International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute (IBAHRI) has launched a number of initiatives to celebrate and support the 30th anniversary of the United Nations Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers (UN Basic Principles) and the IBA Standards for the Independence of the Legal Profession (IBA Standards). The UN Basic Principles and the IBA Standards constitute landmark instruments recognising the principle of independence of the legal profession as an essential component of a democratic society and the rule of law.
IBAHRI Co-Chair and former Justice of the High Court of Australia (1996 – 2006), the Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG, commented: ‘This double anniversary presents the perfect occasion to think more fully on the importance of lawyers, with respect to protection of human rights, maintaining the rule of law and the functioning of democracy in general. During this milestone year, both the UN Basic Principles and the IBA Standards should receive particular attention and support worldwide. Both instruments emphasise the obligations of states to protect lawyers from any form of attack, harassment or pressure. However, we see that states do not always play a sufficient part in safeguarding lawyers. We urge all states to protect lawyers from any interference from state and non-state actors and take positive and proactive measures to that end. We urge all states to protect lawyers from violence and intimidation from whatever source.’
The primary aim of the UN Basic Principles and the IBA Standards is to assist states in their task of promoting and ensuring the proper role of lawyers. On the occasion of their 30th anniversary, the IBAHRI expresses support for these documents with a number of initiatives, including:
IBAHRI Co-Chair, and immediate past Secretary-General of the Swedish Bar Association, Anne Ramberg, said: ‘Jointly with our professional partners, we call on the international community to denounce the growing attacks on independent lawyers worldwide and support their role in upholding free and democratic societies. We recall that protecting lawyers is at the core of the mandate of any lawyers’ organisation and urge all independent bar associations and law societies to augment their efforts in shielding lawyers persecuted for performing their professional duties. Furthermore, we call for any abuses of power by state authorities that limit access to justice to be confronted. The independence of the legal profession and access to justice are prerequisites to the rule of law and democracy, and should be guaranteed.’
ENDS
Notes to the Editor
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IBA website page link for this news release:
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Download The principle of independence of lawyers: UN and IBA reference instruments leaflet:
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Download the oral statement from the 44th UN Human Rights Council session:
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