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IBA launches wellbeing commission for lawyers

08 February 2023
Issue: 8012 / Categories: Legal News , Profession , Mental health , Career focus
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The International Bar Association (IBA) has set up a permanent commission dedicated to improving the wellbeing of lawyers and legal professionals around the world.

The Professional Wellbeing Commission’s aims include promoting the importance of wellbeing, raising awareness of the challenges and stigma surrounding discussion of wellbeing, and promoting positive policies and working practices.

Co-chairs Steven Richman and Deborah Enix-Ross said: ‘The wellbeing challenges faced by the profession seem to be growing in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘It is vital that any response to this crisis is coordinated at a global level, and so we look forward to working with our commissioners, and dedicated IBA staff, to make a difference to lawyers and other legal professionals wherever they may be in the world.’

A 2021 IBA report, ‘Mental wellbeing in the legal profession: a global study’, revealed a general lack of good working practices and support, while stigma prevented many lawyers from seeking help.

Issue: 8012 / Categories: Legal News , Profession , Mental health , Career focus
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