#Access to Justice

Why this campaign?

The rights and freedoms of the LGBTQIA+ community worldwide are under increased pressure. Several UN experts have warned against the risks faced by HRD’s in the defence and protection of individuals with LBTQIA+ identities. In their statement, the UN experts expressed concern on the regular attacks, arbitrary arrests, detentions, and raids against these HRD’s and the role of legislation criminalising persons of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity in the perpetration of this harassment.

For years, Lawyers for Lawyers has been in contact with lawyers from several countries who represent clients who are presumed to be members of the LGBTQIA+ community or perceived as having same-sex relationships. From these lawyers, we have come to learn that they are often subjected to harassment and threats in connection to their work on these cases. To support these lawyers, we designed the ‘Access to Justice Campaign’, which launched on 16 May 2024 and will run until 2026.

“When human rights and fundamental freedoms are on the line, it is even more important that these people have access to appropriate legal assistance”

Strategies

This campaign follows a dual approach: promoting the protection and recognition of lawyers’ crucial role in advancing LGBTQIA+ rights, while also advocating for those rights themselves. The campaign seeks to express solidarity with these courageous lawyers, especially by offering recognition and encouragement to younger generations of lawyers, who may be hesitant to take on these cases due to concerns over reputation or security. By highlighting stories of how they have risked their stability and safety to defend a marginalised group, the report aims to inspire other lawyers to engage in these activities as well, to ensure the access to justice for all individuals.