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Imagine facing a courtroom where your freedom, financial future and innocence depends on the outcome, yet you’re unable to afford the legal representation you need. Without a lawyer, you’re unable to build a legal argument and are left without a fair chance to defend yourself. This is a harsh reality for 4 billion people across the globe. UU����ֱ�� believes that access to fair and equal justice should never be a privilege, but a fundamental right. As a global provider of legal, regulatory, and business information, the Rule of Law (RoL) is at the heart of everything we do. It drives us, defines us, and inspires our commitment to building a fairer society.

The Rule of Law is essential to the protection of human rights, guaranteeing that laws are applied impartially. However, barriers such as socio-economic inequality, limited access to legal resources, and gaps in representation prevent people from exercising their legal rights. Our mission is to bridge these gaps by equipping legal professionals with the tools they need and supporting initiatives that make justice accessible to all.

One of the ways we advance the Rule of Law is through our partnership with Advocate, the Bar’s national pro bono charity in England and Wales. Advocate connects individuals unable to afford legal representation with barristers who volunteer their time and expertise. This vital service levels the playing field by providing skilled advocacy to those who need it. As headline sponsor of the Bar Pro Bono Awards, we proudly support an event celebrating the exceptional contributions of barristers who give their time and skills to make a difference. By supporting Advocate in hosting the awards, we help recognise and honour the transformative impact of pro bono work.

Since 1997, the Bar Pro Bono Awards have highlighted the extraordinary efforts of barristers in advancing access to justice. At the 2024 awards, The Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales, Baroness Carr, powerfully articulated the value of these contributions: “Every piece of pro bono work matters. It is not just about the landmark cases. A barrister’s involvement in what might be objectively a small case can still be life-changing for the client involved.” Her words remind us that even the smallest act of service can have a transformative impact. Whether it’s securing housing for a struggling family or protecting someone’s employment rights, pro bono work changes lives and strengthens the Rule of Law.

To find out more about how UU����ֱ�� advances the RoL and learn about Advocate .