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On June 20, 2025, the Centre for Constitutionalism and Human Rights of the European Humanities University, in cooperation with the International Partnership of ILIA Alumni and Experts, organized a high-level scientific-practical conference entitled “The Human Rights Lawyers’ Movement and the Convention on the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer: Theoretical Aspects, Best Practices, and New Challenges.” The conference took place in Vilnius, Lithuania, in a hybrid format, bringing together leading legal professionals, scholars, and institutional representatives from across Europe both in person and online.

The event was dedicated to advancing discourse surrounding the recently adopted Council of Europe Convention for the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer, placing particular emphasis on its significance, implementation mechanisms, and implications for the independence and safety of lawyers within member states.

Distinguished speakers included Mr. David Asatiani, President of the Association Européenne des Avocats (AEA-EAL), Mrs. Maria Ślązak, Immediate Past President of the Association, and Mr. Nielson Sánchez-Stewart, Vice President of AEA-EAL, each of whom contributed valuable perspectives on the evolving challenges and responsibilities facing the legal profession.

David Asatiani, delivered a comprehensive speech on “The Role of the State and Bar Associations in Strengthening the Standards of the Legal Profession.” Highlighting the importance of international cooperation, he stated: “By working together across borders and institutions, we can create an environment where legal professionals are empowered to uphold justice, protect human rights, and serve the public without fear or obstruction.”

Mrs. Maria Ślązak contributed to the discussion as an expert by addressing the topic “The Convention for the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer: Legacy and Outcomes”. Drawing on her direct experience in the negotiation process, she explained the scope, binding nature, and potential legal impact of the Convention on national systems, underlining its value as a tool for reinforcing the rule of law across Europe.

Mr. Nielson Sánchez-Stewart presented on “Protection of Lawyers by Their Bar Associations in Spain,” offering an in-depth overview of Spain’s legal and institutional frameworks designed to ensure the safety and autonomy of legal practitioners. He highlighted the essential role of bar associations in establishing institutional protection and responding effectively to threats against their members.

The Conference concluded with a strong reaffirmation of the critical importance of upholding the independence and security of the legal profession as a cornerstone of democratic societies and the rule of law.

David Asatiani, President of the European Association of Lawyers (AEA-EAL), delivered a speech at the fourth edition of the Tashkent Law Spring, a leading international legal forum held annually in Uzbekistan, gathering legal professionals, academics, and business representatives from over 40 countries.

Speaking on the topic „Digital Advocacy: Overcoming Geographical and Legal Barriers,” Mr. Asatiani explored the profound impact of digital transformation on the legal profession and the need to adapt while safeguarding core values of justice.

“We are witnessing a fundamental shift in how legal services are delivered, how we engage with clients, and how we uphold the rule of law,” he noted.

Highlighting the structural changes within the profession, Mr. Asatiani pointed to the growing use of e-Justice systems – including digital case management, remote hearings, and electronic document exchange – which have enhanced efficiency and broadened access to justice, particularly in remote areas.

He also emphasized both the opportunities and risks associated with new technologies, including artificial intelligence: “While innovation expands our capabilities, it also raises ethical and regulatory challenges. We must ensure that independence, confidentiality, and professional integrity remain uncompromised in the digital age.”

Mr. Asatiani reaffirmed AEA-EAL’s commitment to guiding its members through this transformation and stressed the importance of coordinated international efforts to develop common standards for legal tech.

🔸 The Tashkent International Legal Forum provides a vital platform for global dialogue on legal developments. The 2025 edition focused on law in the digital economy, AI regulation, cross-border cooperation, and the future of legal education.

During the virtual ceremony on 28 April 2025 the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA) and the European Association of Lawyers (AEA-EAL) signed the Memorandum of Understanding to formalize a partnership which will provide a framework for the members of the two associations to share information on issues such as trade, environmental justice, and human rights.

NYSBA was represented by the President Domenick Napoletano, as well as Jay Safer and Giorgi Tshekhani, while AEA-EAL was represented by the President David Asatiani and the Immediate Past President Maria Slazak.

“This is a moment to strengthen transatlantic ties between our two associations and to stand up for the rule of law, which must be protected at home and abroad,” said Domenick Napoletano, president of the New York State Bar Association. “Together, we will enhance the professional growth and influence of lawyers both in the United States and Europe.”

The Law Society of Hong Kong’s Second Instalment of 7th Belt and Road Conference will be held on Monday, 28 April 2025 in a webinar format.

When: 28 April 2025, 03:30 – 09:45 CET (09:30 – 15:45 Hong Kong Time)

PROGRAM

The 53rd European Presidents’ Conference took place on 28 February – 1 March 2025 in Vienna. The leading topic of the discussion was: „Deregulation and the Rule of Law: Opportunity or Threat?”.

The conference was attended by 4 members of AEA-EAL Board of Directors: President David Asatiani, Immediate Past President Maria Ślązak, Monique Stengel and Konrad Meingast.

The European Association of Lawyers AEA-EAL provided a report of its activities in 2023 to be published along the reports of other European bars and associations.

All the reports can be found here:
COUNTRY REPORTS

And AEA-EAL report is available here:
AEA-EAL REPORT