Statement of Need

The Rule of Law is under increasing attack in many parts of the world. Independent lawyers are guardians of the Rule of Law. They are central actors in ensuring, among others, access to justice, the right to a fair trial, equality before the law, respect for human rights. For precisely this reason, in many nations globally, lawyers suffer intimidation, harassment, and attacks against their ability to practice.

Persecuted by governments, non-state actors, militias, and private individuals, lawyers worldwide endure suspension and disbarment, threats to their lives and the lives of their families, violence, arbitrary detention, wrongful prosecution and sentencing, disappearances, and even death in retaliation for their work. Lawyers are targeted because of their willingness to represent marginalized or unpopular clients and causes that would otherwise remain voiceless.

Independent lawyers are guardians of the Rule of Law and are increasingly under attack in many parts of the world.

When minorities, vulnerable and targeted groups, as well as civil society members and human rights defenders lack access to a lawyer, their rights are unprotected. When lawyers fear reprisal for their work, they are deterred from taking on sensitive cases. Entire communities may be excluded from justice processes and already vulnerable groups and individuals denied equal protection under the law.

There is no central tracking of attacks against lawyers worldwide. This knowledge gap makes it challenging to combat these concerns and protect lawyers.

Understanding the scope and scale of an issue is a prerequisite to combatting it. Society cannot change what it is not aware of.

Improved information and documentation will shed light on attacks against lawyers, enabling more effective responses. Consequently, enhanced data in this area will facilitate greater support, attention, funding, and aid for lawyers who risk their lives to serve their clients, protect vulnerable voices and communities and enhance the Rule of Law.