International pro bono
This can involve:
- education
- human rights
- not for profits
- charity law
We’re committed to pro bono that supports access to justice and the rule of law around the world.
We support work in other jurisdictions through our international rule of law programme by providing human rights training and assistance to legal professionals and law societies.
If you're interested in international work, get involved with our international projects.
International pro bono charities
If you'd like to find out about volunteering abroad, pro bono charities can tell you about opportunities.
Advocates for International Development (A4ID)
Through its pro bono broker and legal education services, A4ID helps the legal sector meet its global corporate social responsibility.
International Senior Lawyers Project (ISLP)
ISLP provides highly skilled and experienced lawyers to promote:
- human rights
- fair and sustainable economic development
- the rule of law worldwide
It helps governments, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other institutions work to provide legal help and support the rights of citizens in their countries.
Legal Response Initiative (LRI)
LRI provides free legal support to poor and developing countries affected by climate change, as well as to organisations with observer status. (Some organisations give observer status to non-members who have an interest in how the organisation works or to take part in some of the organisation’s activities.)
A network of lawyers from law firms, barrister chambers and universities in different jurisdictions can:
- give assistance during meetings
- draft legal opinions
- build the capacity of lawyers and negotiators from developing countries
The LRI aims to make sure everyone involved in climate change negotiations is bound by the same rules.
PILnet
PILnet develops pro bono practice around the world. Its pro bono clearinghouses in Hungary, Russia, China and its cross-border clearinghouse brings lawyers seeking opportunities to provide free legal help together with those who need it.
Rule of Law Expertise Programme (ROLE UK)
Funded by the Department for International Development (DfID), ROLE UK aims to improve the rule of law by making it easier for DfID priority countries to access to UK legal sector expertise in the UK.
Experts improve the policies, capacity and practices underpinning the rule of law in 28 jurisdictions around the world. They provide:
- specialist information
- advice
- mentoring
- training
Role UK shares best practice in providing technical legal assistance and improves co-ordination of the UK’s international legal pro bono community.
TrustLaw
TrustLaw is the Thomson Reuters Foundation's global pro bono service that connects NGOs and social enterprises with law firms around the world. TrustLaw has over 2,000 members in over 170 countries.
The Pro Bono Recognition List of England and Wales, under the patronage of the lady chief justice, recognises solicitors and barristers who have given 25 hours of legal pro bono assistance in the last year.
Nominations for 2025 list will open on 13 January - find out how to nominate yourself or your colleagues!