Lawyers Without Borders is a global group of volunteer lawyers from around the world who offer pro bono service to rule of law projects, capacity building and access to justice initiatives. As a Student Division, we work to further this mission within our community. The society has two main functions: research and events.
Research
Our Research Division, which we recruit annually, uses their academic knowledge and investigative skills to undertake research projects. These projects are organised in collaboration with NGOs and charities to support their work which is relevant to human rights and the rule of law. For example, last years’ project was “An Analysis of Aid as it Relates to The Human Rights of Women and Girls in Afghanistan” in collaboration with the International Women’s Initiative. Our Research Division also writes regular blog posts on issues they are interested in and that have relevance to the overarching theme of the research project. This year, we also aim to provide opportunities for Research Division members to present their work at discussion events.
Being part of the Research Division is a great way to develop and showcase your research skills with rewarding and meaningful work. If that sounds like something you might like to do, don’t be daunted – our team will be there to guide and support you, all you need is interest and motivation!
Events
The other major function of our society is running a mix of academic, career and social events concerned with human rights and the rule of law. Previous informative and career events include “The Future of Human Rights in Scotland”, “Dissecting the UK-Rwanda Policy”, “Understanding the Ukraine Crisis from a Multi-Policy Perspective”, “Press Freedom and Careers Beyond the Law”, and “Planning your Career in Law During a Pandemic”. We are thankful to have worked with a variety of organisations to run these events, for example: Burness Paull, the School of Law and College of Social Sciences Employability Teams, the Media Development Investment Fund, Human Rights Pulse, Rape Crisis Scotland and Advocates Abroad.
Annually, we run a “Lawathon” (legal hackathon), which involves interactive problem-solving scenarios where participants team up to tackle human rights issues and ethical debates. Additionally, we run debates on ethical issues such as capitalism and billionaires in collaboration with other student societies. As for socials, past events have ranged from pub quizzes to online Fishbowl socials, and we are excited to bring you more fun events in the future! Finally, we organise fundraising events for important causes, to support charities and bring attention to global human rights problems.
Why join us?
We welcome students from all degree backgrounds to our society. Becoming a member and participating in our events will allow you to connect with likeminded people, find out more about global and local human rights issues and contribute meaningfully to rule of law debates.
Membership perks include free/discounted entry to paid events, access to our Members' Newsletter, and 10% discounts at Comet Pieces and Tempo Tea Bar!
Disclaimer
LWOBGU is a separate entity existing as a Chapter, organized under the umbrella program of Lawyers Without Borders Student Divisions. Opinions, views, positions, activities, events and decisions of this Student Division do not represent any view or position held and/or endorsed by Lawyers Without Borders.