I am delighted to invite you to participate in the International Bar Association’s 2005 Annual Conference in Prague. 

Prague is a city with a venerable past, a thriving present and an exciting future. When joining the European Union last year, the Czech Republic embraced fully the challenge of furthering Europe’s stability and prosperity. Having been under the influence of communism for 40 years, Prague has turned from a city where ‘impossible’ was a daily companion, to a ‘can-do’ city and one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations.

The Annual Conference allows the global voice of the legal profession to showcase the work that goes on throughout the Association. It provides delegates with unsurpassed value through exposure to the outstanding work of the specialist Committees, Groups and Fora. 

I take this opportunity to highlight the work of the newly launched Bar Issues Commission, tasked with the goal of creating a forum whose sole purpose it is to support the activities and the interests of the IBA’s 192 Member Organisations. At their showcase on Friday, a panel of journalists and CEOs of multinational companies will force lawyers to defend the core values of our profession as the regulation of our profession continues to be under scrutiny. 

If you are not already a member of the IBA, I urge you to consider joining as you will make a saving on the registration fees of the Conference whilst affording yourself all the benefits that IBA membership offers. If you would like to get more involved in any aspect of the Association’s work, please let us know. All volunteers are welcome to contribute to our work and those who get involved find it extremely rewarding both personally and professionally.

I very much hope you will join us in Prague.

Francis Neate  President, International Bar Association

Over the past decade we have witnessed a surge of breaking down of national barriers and the result has been a huge shift in the nature of cross-border work. The expansion and increasing legal integration within the European Union is one prime example. Prague in all its splendour provides the perfect backdrop for members of the legal profession to meet and debate these and other current developments which affect all areas of the law.

You may have already faced the challenge of defining the boundaries of national law and therefore you will no doubt find the two commercial Showcase sessions of interest. Of equal importance are the sessions run by our Sections, Committees and specialist groups. There is an exciting programme of social events befitting this fascinating venue, culminating with a Closing Gala Dinner in the magnificent venue of Prague Castle.

For those who are regular attendees, I look forward to seeing you. For those who have not attended an IBA Annual Conference before; I urge you to do so this year. I can guarantee that the IBA 2005 Conference in Prague will be an event not to be missed.

Michael J Reynolds  Chair, Legal Practice Division

In an environment where law firms are embracing their obligation to support those in need by making pro bono work mandatory for their members, the Public and Professional Interest Division offers the opportunity to do that, as well as providing a means for its members to become better acquainted with the global legal community. Members are actively encouraged to contribute to activities that support, inter alia, the training of young lawyers; law firm management; the capacity building of Bars in developing countries; and the training of the judiciary where and when required. In addition, it offers access to a number of other specialist interest groups. There is something in the PPID for everyone.

As you peruse the wide-ranging programme, do remember that the IBA Annual Conference not only provides the opportunity to make contacts but also to learn from some of the most acclaimed speakers in the legal world. Attendance also helps with CLE accreditation.

With over 3,000 delegates expected to participate, attendance should not be missed.

L Thomas Forbes QC  Chair, Public and Professional Interest Division