PILnet’s annual European Pro Bono Forum, now in its sixth year, has played a major role in building support for pro bono across the continent. By bringing together a growing community that recognizes the urgency of pro bono—individuals from law firms, corporations, bar organizations, NGOs, and law schools—the Forum offers a vital setting where supporters of pro bono can explore how they can best collaborate to address critical issues of social justice.
The Forum offers an unparalleled opportunity for participants to deepen their knowledge of issues relating to European pro bono law. Through interactive workshops, engaging social events, and structured networking opportunities, more than 300 attendees—seasoned practitioners and newcomers alike—gain insight into the pro bono community and forge alliances that can help deliver justice and protect rights around the world.
Six years ago, when PILnet’s first European Pro Bono Forum was held in Budapest, support for pro bono was on the rise but its presence on the Continent was modest and its long-term expansion uncertain. Three years in Budapest led in 2010 to a highly successful move to Paris, followed in 2011 by a remarkable outpouring of support when the Forum came to Berlin. The 2012 Forum in Madrid promises to be an equally strong gathering. Pro bono, we can now say, is being fully embraced across Europe.
Already attended the Forum?
This year’s Forum will offer meaningful opportunities for experienced pro bono practitioners to engage in new initiatives focused on the pro bono developments in Spain and beyond… important global issues such as immigration, the trafficking of women, corruption, strategic litigation against discrimination, and corporate social responsibility, as well as cross-border partnerships.
New to pro bono practice?
The European Pro Bono Forum is an exciting opportunity to build partnerships with existing pro bono networks around the world and to gain valuable skills and knowledge. Participants can choose from a variety of streams and workshops, including those focused particularly on introducing pro bono practice and creating pro bono initiatives from the ground up.
Representing an NGO?
NGO representatives bring important perspectives to the Forum. The Forum provides a unique networking opportunity during which organizations present their mission and work and speak to lawyers one-on-one about their legal needs and those of the people they serve. NGO representatives are entitled to discounted registration rates.
Language
The official language of the Forum is English. This year some workshops and plenary sessions will be translated into Spanish and all workshops in the Spanish stream will be in Spanish.
More information: http://www.probonoforum.eu/
Fuente: Ilustre Colegio de Abogados de Valencia
