Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP, the Institute of Small and Micro States (ISMS), and the British Institute of International and Comparative Law (BIICL) are delighted to invite you to an all-day event on small states and access to justice. The conference is the eighth in our series of conferences on issues relating to small states and will be co-hosted by Partner Steven Finizio.

Steven Finizio will also chair a panel discussion on “Access to Justice - AI and Technology” and Senior Associate Michael Arada Greenop will chair a panel discussion on “Access to Justice - the Unchartered Dimension.” The event will navigate the critical challenges small states face in ensuring justice for all citizens amidst global crises and rapid technological change. Discussions will focus on the unique challenges posed by the climate crisis, digital advancements, and systemic inequalities, seeking innovative approaches aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 16). 

Conference Overview

In the face of a global access to justice crisis, as highlighted by the UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, Margaret Satterthwaite, small states face a distinct set of challenges. These challenges are exacerbated by pressing issues such as the climate crisis and the resulting climate-related displacement. 

Additionally, the rapid advancement of digital technologies has both created new opportunities and posed new obstacles to access justice in these states. Furthermore, the influence of individuals and entities with economic advantages attempting to sway the judiciary, combined with systemic inequalities and discrimination, compound the difficulties small states encounter in upholding the rule of law and achieving the objectives outlined in SDG 16. 

In addressing these complex challenges, small states must engage in a thoughtful reimagination of their approach to access to justice, one that takes into account their unique circumstances and leverages innovative solutions to ensure that all citizens can access legal remedies and protections.

The conference is open to all. It will be hosted at the offices of WilmerHale in London and will be followed by a drinks reception.

VIEW FULL AGENDA AND LIST OF SPEAKERS

Event Details:
Wednesday, 15 November 2023  |  9:30–18:00
WilmerHale | 49 Park Lane, London W1K 1PS
RSVP