Pro bono news around the world
A regular feed of pro bono stories in the media and updates from across the global pro bono sector.
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High Court of Australia rules ankle bracelets and curfews unconstitutional for people released from indefinite immigration detention
The High Court of Australia has ruled that forcing people released from immigration detention to wear ankle bracelets and live under curfews is unconstitutional.
UK refugee and migrant advocacy organisation details growing crisis in access to justice for asylum seekers
A report published last week by Migrants Organise warns of a growing ‘crisis in access to justice’ for people seeking asylum in the UK, citing a collapse in legal aid provision and increasing numbers of unrepresented claimants.
Women in Law Japan marks 10 years amid persistent gender gap in the profession
International Women’s Day this year was centered on the theme “Give to Gain,” emphasizing collaboration and mutual support. Presenters also highlighted the ongoing importance of pro bono work (professional services rendered voluntarily) as part of the organization’s activities.
IBA Pro Bono Award 2026 – call for nominations
The International Bar Association (IBA) is now receiving nominations for its 2026 IBA Pro Bono Award. The Award will be presented to the winner at a dedicated ceremony during this year’s IBA Annual Conference, taking place from 4–9 October 2026 at the Bella Center in Copenhagen, Denmark.
How can Europe become a champion of child-friendly justice?
The Council of Europe and the European Union have launched a child-friendly justice assessment tool to protect kids in legal proceedings.
Access to justice is essential for transgender New Yorkers — and it depends on the Interest on Lawyer Account Fund
For transgender people, a name carries weight. It can determine whether one moves through the world safely — or faces discrimination and danger. Civil legal services can provide assistance, but the ability to provide that help depends heavily on a unique funding source: the Interest on Lawyer Account Fund.
Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR): Addressing gaps in access to justice for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence
The International Commission of Jurists has launched its Baseline Study on Access to Justice for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Lao PDR, which outlines the country’s legal and policy framework on SGBV and its implementation in practice, and assesses Lao PDR’s compliance with its international human rights law obligations to prohibit, prevent, investigate, prosecute, punish, and provide redress for SGBV.
Leadership Insights: A Turning Point for Pro Bono in Europe
For the first time, the European Commission, the executive body of the European Union, has formally recognized pro bono legal support as a strategic pillar of a healthy civic ecosystem, and it has named PILnet as a leading example of the networks making it work.