62. The Role Of Bar Associations And Law Societies In The Implementation Of Human Rights

Abstract

This chapter addresses the question whether bar associations and law societies have a role to play in the implementation of human rights, and, if so, what this role is. Some governments, however, regard actions by lawyers and bar associations in support and protection of human rights as equivalent to political interference. States are bound to ensure the independence of bar associations as an element in reinforcing the rule of law. Numerous international associations of lawyers and jurists have conducted detailed discussions and adopted positions on the role of lawyers and bar associations as regards human rights. The International Bar Association (IBA) adopted at the Annual General Meeting of the IBA held in September 1990 the Standards for the Independence of the Legal Profession. In conclusion lawyers have a pre-eminent role in promoting the development of human rights both individually and with the support of their associations. Keywords: bar associations; human rights; law societies; political interference