Salzburg Global and the International Bar Assocation launch a new program for leading young voices on international law
Salzburg Global, in partnership with the International Bar Association (IBA), has launched the International Law Fellows Network. This program gathers younger associates and aspiring international lawyers at the early stages of their careers to help them effectively engage on a range of issues that are critical to safeguarding the rule of law.
The inaugural session, "Safeguarding Democracy and the Rule of Law: The Crucial Role of Rising International Lawyers," convened leading voices in international law for an immersive three-day session of dialogue and collaboration from March 27 to 30, 2025 at Schloss Leopoldskron.
Participating in the program were 28 Fellows of international law, representing the public, non-profit, and private sectors. These early- and mid-career professionals collaborated with eminent speakers, esteemed judges, and leading academics to explore the evolving role of international and transnational lawyers in upholding democratic principles and safeguarding the rule of law.
The session took place against a backdrop of threats to democratic societies and the rules-based international order, the rise of authoritarian power, political populism, polarization, anti-democratic propaganda, disinformation campaigns, and military aggression.
IBA President Jaime Carey commented: "Thinking about how rising international lawyers will navigate the complex challenges facing the rule of law in the 21st century is what led to the establishment of the International Law Fellows Network. It became clear that lawyers need to take on a greater role as defenders of the rule of law because of the numerous issues facing societies, such as a growing distrust of long-standing institutions, a perceived lack of transparency, equality, accountability and fairness, political instability, and the ongoing violations of fundamental rights and freedoms."
He added: "Both the IBA and Salzburg Global were established in 1947, with aligned missions to foster connection and cooperation globally. I can think of no better organization with which to undertake the responsibility of supporting lawyers with the space to think and converse freely with peers and mentors on matters of worldwide societal importance."
Salzburg Global President and Chief Executive Officer, Martin Weiss, said: "Since our founding in 1947, Salzburg Global is committed to advancing democracy and the rule of law across borders and disciplines. The International Law Fellows Network builds on that legacy, alongside our ongoing programs and the establishment of the Cutler Center, by empowering the next generation of legal professionals to defend the fundamental principles of justice, fairness and integrity at a time when they are under unprecedented strain, yes, even attack. We are proud to partner with the IBA to ensure that these vital conversations continue globally and across generations. And to make sure that these are not only conversations, but conversations with consequences."
The session comprised a blend of conversations, debates, and interactive workshops designed to spark meaningful exchanges, equip fellows with practical tools, and inspire new approaches to the complex legal and ethical dilemmas facing today’s global community. Conversations focused on upholding the rule of law through courts and international institutions, pro bono for the public good, and law firms on the front lines defending the rule of law through private practice.
The International Law Fellows Network aims to:
- Define the role of international lawyers in defending the rule of law: Equip participants with the tools, strategies and ethical frameworks needed to safeguard legal institutions, protect fundamental rights and uphold democratic principles in an era of rising authoritarianism and legal uncertainty.
- Build a strong community of Salzburg Global Fellows in international law: Strengthen a global network of international lawyers dedicated to defending the rule of law by fostering collaboration, mutual support, and the exchange of ideas that will extend beyond the program.
- Draft a statement on the rule of law: Collaborate to articulate a shared vision and commitment outlining the responsibilities and strategies of international lawyers in preserving and advancing the rule of law, providing a guiding framework for legal professionals worldwide.
Learn more about the International Law Fellows Network and the Lloyd N. Cutler Center for the Rule of Law.
This article was first published by the International Bar Assocation.
