UK urged to ratify vital treaty

The Law Society of England and Wales has urged the UK government to ratify the landmark international treaty known as the Convention for the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer. This appeal comes amid growing concerns regarding the safety of legal professionals within the UK, as nearly half of solicitors reported experiencing threats or abuse according to a recent survey. With the treaty signed in May 2025 but not yet formally ratified, the Law Society stresses the urgency of the situation, especially as discussions heat up around the impact of justice and the rule of law on legal practices.

In conjunction with International Fair Trial Day, the Law Society is set to co-host an event on 19 June with partners including the Budapest Bar Association and the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe. This event aims to explore how Hungary’s new government can work towards restoring the rule of law in light of recent challenges. Law Society president Mark Evans highlighted the heightened risks faced by UK lawyers, stating, “The 2024 summer riots clearly demonstrated that UK lawyers are not immune to the risks that come with upholding the rule of law. They showed that UK lawyers are increasingly exposed to targeted threats and abuse.”

Evans also pointed out that this day serves as a crucial reminder of the struggles lawyers face globally, emphasising that “lawyers around the world are facing restricted media freedom, eroding fair trial guarantees and undermined judicial independence.” By ratifying the Convention, the UK government would not only enhance protections for lawyers but also affirm the country’s commitment to justice and rule of law on the global stage. Evans added, “The Convention would provide vital protections enabling lawyers to support the public safely and independently.”

He further noted that the government has a unique opportunity to bolster the UK’s status as a jurisdiction of choice. "By being among the first to ratify the Convention, it would encourage other countries to follow suit and stand up for justice.” The Law Society’s calls for action underline the pressing need for legal protection in precarious times, ensuring lawyers are empowered to fulfil their roles without fear of reprisals.