Lawyers Face Global Persecution For Defending Rule Of Law

Lawyers Face Global Persecution For Defending Rule Of Law

 

The Law Society of England and Wales has raised concerns over the growing threats faced by lawyers worldwide, as it marks the Day of the Endangered Lawyer.

This year’s observance focuses on Belarus, where legal professionals have faced persecution, arbitrary detention, and systematic harassment following the 2020 Presidential election and mass protests. The Belarusian government has been accused of targeting lawyers who defend dissidents, curbing their ability to practice freely.

Richard Atkinson, President of the Law Society, emphasized the critical role of lawyers in protecting justice and human rights despite facing significant risks.

“The Day of the Endangered Lawyer is a reminder that there are lawyers who put their lives at risk to defend the rule of law and ensure the vulnerable and oppressed have access to justice.”

Atkinson expressed grave concerns over the hostile environment for legal professionals in Belarus, warning that criminal sanctions and government crackdowns have had a chilling effect on the independence of the legal profession.

The Law Society’s annual intervention tracker recorded 42 public actions in response to lawyer mistreatment across 14 countries in 2024 alone.

“We will continue to stand up for the advocate, the defender, and the confidant. Lawyers play a critical role in championing the rule of law, and we are committed to supporting strong, fair justice systems worldwide.”

The Day of the Endangered Lawyer serves as a call to action for the international community to protect legal professionals and uphold judicial independence in the face of political repression.

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