From 2002 to 2024, counter-reforms were implemented in the Russian Federation with the support of the corporate governance bodies of the Bar, which restricted the independence of lawyers (in Russia they are called Advocates) and undermined the right to a fair trial.
During this period, the activities of the Federal Chamber of Advocates and the chambers of advocates in the country's regions made it impossible for advocates to effectively defend both their rights and the rights and interests of their clients and became characterised by such persistent and widespread manifestations as authoritarianism, suppression of democracy, increased state influence, censorship; corruption and financial abuse, discrimination; repressive corporate rule-making and disciplinary prosecution of advocates; and disregard for the goals and objectives of advocates' associations.
Due to the fact that the corporate governance bodies of the Bar in Russia do not adhere to and promote the principles of democracy, the rule of law and human rights, do not uphold justice and integrity, in fact diminish the interests and needs of Russian lawyers and their rights, and thus their activities are contrary to international standards and recommendations of the UN Special Rapporteurs, these bodies can no longer be considered as organisations authorised to represent the interests of Russian lawyers.
The International Association of Russian Advocates, established as a response to the challenges of the time, is intended to take actions aimed at strengthening solidarity, protection and representation of advocates on issues related to the exercise of their professional activities and the implementation in Russia of generally recognised international norms and principles of the organisation and activities of the legal profession.
The Association's mission is to contribute to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, to strengthen civil society institutions, to facilitate the processes of integration of Russian lawyers into the international legal community, to create a platform for the exchange of information and professional experience, to carry out educational, research, publishing and information and analytical activities.
At present, the structure of the Association has been formed, its governing bodies have been elected, and its website has been launched. The Association has opened its membership and is accepting applications from lawyers for advice and defence against prosecution by state bodies and bar associations.
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