This introductory session is designed for young, emerging and early-career lawyers who are interested in becoming more actively involved in the International Bar Association. The session will explain how lawyers at the beginning of their careers can engage with the IBA, build meaningful international networks, contribute to committees and projects, and access professional development opportunities.

The session will also introduce the role of the Young Lawyers’ Committee as a gateway to the wider IBA community. Speakers will share practical guidance on how to begin an IBA journey, including how to join committees, participate in conferences, contribute to publications and initiatives, and build long-term professional relationships within the association.

The session will also include the announcement of the proposed change of name from the Young Lawyers’ Committee to the Next Generation Lawyers’ Committee, reflecting broader and more inclusive representation of the lawyers the committee serves. This change would better capture the committee’s focus on future leaders of the profession, including young lawyers, emerging practitioners and lawyers in the early or developing stages of their international legal careers.