About us

Canadian Lawyers Abroad is a dynamic charity that uses law to improve lives. We do this by supporting rule of law, good governance, and human rights work in the developing world and Canada’s north.

The Canadian legal profession is uniquely placed to make a difference: We practice in a variety of legal traditions, we have strong institutions and a commitment to the rule of law and human rights, and we come from all over the world. Our country is respected internationally.

The challenge for all of us – in academia, at firms, in business, in the NGO world and in government – is to use our knowledge and skills to join the effort to end inequality and poverty worldwide, including in Canada.

Canadian Lawyers Abroad pursues its mission in three ways:

1. We run a Student Program that brings together law students from across the country who are passionate about using their law degree to make positive changes around the world. Through its student chapters, CLA provides a forum for discussion and debate on an annual theme. Past themes have focused on children’s rights, law and development and the responsibility to protect. Through our Summer Internship Program, we offer students the possibility of gaining practical experience with our amazing partner organizations in developing countries and Canada’s north.

2. We work with our partners on innovative and sustainable projects that build capacity and lead to positive, long-term changes in their communities. Our focus is on projects that promote the rule of law and protect human rights and, in the long-term, reduce poverty and promote equitable economic development and social well-being.

3. We are creating a space where all members of the legal community can come together to reflect on the role that Canada can and should be playing in building a world where the rule of law is upheld and human rights are respected. We are interested in exploring the intersection of the rule of law with economic development issues as both must be present for a society to progress and thrive.