Background

The past two decades have witnessed a major political transformation as repressive, undemocratic societies throughout the world were replaced by governments committed to the promotion of democracy, equality and the rule of law. Many of these countries, however, continue to struggle to implement the institutional reforms necessary to make these ideals a reality. In particular, the justice system often lacks the structure and support necessary to insure the maintenance of international norms and standards of justice. If institutional reforms in these countries are to be translated into access to justice for all, it is imperative that the legal profession be supported to assume a leadership role in this process.

The Vance Center works with organizations in democratic countries seeking to advance the role of the legal profession in promoting access to justice, and draws extensively on the resources of the United States legal profession through linkages with bar associations, law firms, public interest law organizations and law schools. It facilitates collaboration between the private and public interest sectors in the belief that both are critical to achieving meaningful access to justice and a genuine ethic of societal responsibility in lawyers. By creating linkages between partners facing similar issues around the world, the Vance Center encourages a global exchange of information and ideas that builds the capacity of members of the legal profession to affect positive change in their societies. 

 

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