I was often among a small handful of people from Africa. This gradually changed, and in 2017, at the Budapest Forum, a lunchtime discussion on Africa was held, partly to explore the possibility of holding a Forum in Africa and to enhance networks. By 2024, Africa was more clearly featured, as evidenced by the fact that in December 2024, ProBono.Org, PILnet and the SADC Lawyers Association signed an agreement to strengthen pro bono and public interest law across Africa, beginning in Southern Africa.
Now, South Africa is hosting the first PILnet Global Forum on African soil in Cape Town from 10-12 November.
I found enormous value in attending PILnet Forums over the years, particularly in meeting clearinghouses from around the globe and learning from their experiences. I took copious notes, and now, when I look over them, I am impressed by the wide range of topics covered and the practical guidance I took away.
Each year I attended, the clearinghouses and civil society organisations met for a day on their own and covered a wide range of topics aimed at enhancing our work. My notes, which run to pages, cover discussions on tactics for approaching law firms; how to encourage law firms to take on big matters by unbundling them; starting online law clinics staffed by pro bono lawyers, as lawyers may not be able to travel; using the expertise of NGOs in complex cases to assist law firms; the use of technology by clearinghouses to match lawyers to cases; how to use events strategically to involve private law firms; whether mandatory pro bono rules help or hinder; the value of training private attorneys in areas of public interest law; and many others.
The Forum always featured presentations addressing current legal issues faced globally. This year is no different: “AI and access to justice: Practical use cases workshop,” “The role of pro bono in ensuring a just and equitable energy transition in Africa,” and “Strategic litigation and refugee rights,” among others.
The Forums buzz with conversations, laughter, sharing, and thoughtful discussion, resulting in long-lasting networks and friendships with people from a wide range of countries. One comes back energised, stimulated, and with many new ideas on how to use pro bono to enhance access to justice. Always our central concern.
