21 January 2026
Disturbing real-life examples of lawyers harassed, disbarred or imprisoned for doing their job have been detailed in a Law Society report, ‘When lawyers are silenced’
The report, published last week, covers the types and impact of methods of repression. Examples include ongoing criminal proceedings against the leadership of the Istanbul Bar Association—accused of ‘terrorist propaganda’ after calling for an independent investigation into the deaths of journalists in Syria.
Law Society president Mark Evans said: ‘We call on governments to respect and protect lawyers’ rights in line with international law and to condemn all acts of violence, threats or reprisals against lawyers doing their job.’
